To evaluate whether enabling grayscale mode on smartphones reduces screen time among medical students.
Approach:
Data Collection: Participants recorded daily screen time using their smartphone's built-in tracking feature and completed end-of-week surveys assessing perceived study habits, productivity, and sleep quality.
Key Findings:
Grayscale mode was associated with a statistically significant reduction in mean daily screen time (mean reduction 28 min per day; p < 0.05).
The effect of grayscale mode on screen time was consistent across intervention order.
Qualitative comments suggested reduced habitual engagement alongside usability challenges for certain tasks.
Interpretation:
Grayscale mode may influence digital engagement patterns in high-demand learning environments.
Limitations:
Participants were not blinded to the condition due to the visible nature of the grayscale display.
Self-reported screen time may lack verification.
Conclusion:
Grayscale mode is associated with reduced smartphone screen time among medical students.
