JD Wetherspoon Bans Loud Smartphone Audio in 792 Pubs

Tim Martin, the owner of JD Wetherspoon, has implemented a ban on loud smartphone and tablet audio across the company's 792 pubs. The new policy prohibits patrons from taking speakerphone calls or playing music and videos without the use of headphones.

Martin introduced the measure to address what he described as an increasing problem in recent years. He characterized the pub chain as an "oasis of tranquillity and contemplation" in a world dominated by amplified sound. This restriction follows a previous ban on Meta camera-equipped glasses intended to prevent discreet recording within the premises.

While managers and customers at London locations generally welcomed the move as a way to curb antisocial behavior, some reports indicate that the policy is not yet universally followed by all patrons.