Borussia Dortmund launch anti-phone initiative for fans in stadium

Dortmund fans can earn signed shirts and vouchers by reducing phone use during matches via a voluntary app feature.

Borussia Dortmund has launched a voluntary "fan mode" in its mobile app to encourage supporters to put away their phones during matches. The initiative, starting Saturday against Eintracht Frankfurt, tracks how often a phone is unlocked during play and awards points for keeping screens off, with top scorers winning signed shirts and merchandise vouchers. CEO Carsten Cramer said the club introduced the scheme because fans are increasingly annoyed by selfies, streaming, and social media in the stands, and wants to preserve the unique atmosphere of the 81,000-capacity stadium.