Borussia Dortmund launches app feature to reward fans who stay off phones

Ahead of its upcoming Bundesliga match against Eintracht Frankfurt, Borussia Dortmund rolled out a "Fan Mode" on its official mobile application. When activated on match days, the feature monitors the duration a phone’s screen stays locked, granting a point for every minute the device is not used. Fans may temporarily use their phones during halftime but must switch the mode back on for the second half, with the scoring period concluding at the final whistle.

The club promises prizes such as signed jerseys and gift vouchers for the top point earners. Dortmund claims that roughly two-thirds of spectators habitually use smartphones during games, leading to complaints about selfies and streaming. The initiative aims to encourage supporters to experience the match with their full attention. The feature becomes available starting Saturday’s game.