In a world where our phones have become extensions of our personalities, it’s fascinating to discover what digital pastimes occupy the time of world leaders. When former President Barack Obama recently revealed that Words With Friends is the only game on his phone, it wasn’t just a casual admission about mobile entertainment—it was a window into how technology serves human connection rather than mere distraction. While most of us juggle multiple apps and games, Obama’s singular focus on this particular word game speaks volumes about intentional digital engagement in an age of endless scrolling.
What makes Obama’s choice particularly compelling isn’t the game itself, but the reason behind it. He plays Words With Friends specifically to maintain his friendship with former White House photographer Pete Souza. Think about that for a moment: a former president, someone who could be engaging with any number of high-stakes global issues, chooses to nurture a personal relationship through a simple word game. This isn’t about killing time—it’s about making time, about creating digital touchpoints that sustain bonds forged during extraordinary circumstances. The ping of an incoming word becomes a reminder of shared history and ongoing connection.
The contrast between Obama’s disciplined approach and our typical phone habits is striking. Most of us treat our phones like digital Swiss Army knives, crammed with apps for every conceivable purpose. We bounce between social media, news, games, and messaging, often feeling more scattered than satisfied. Obama’s revelation suggests a different philosophy: technology should serve specific purposes rather than dominate our attention. His admission that he “might waste a lot of time” on the game shows self-awareness about digital temptation, yet his commitment to playing with only one person demonstrates remarkable restraint.
There’s something beautifully democratic about a former world leader engaging in the same casual pastime as millions of ordinary people. Words With Friends doesn’t care about your resume or political affiliation—it only cares about your vocabulary and strategic thinking. In an era of increasing polarization, the shared experience of playing the same game as someone who once occupied the Oval Office creates a subtle but meaningful point of connection. It reminds us that beneath the titles and responsibilities, we’re all just people looking for ways to stay connected and challenged.
Obama’s phone habits offer a refreshing counter-narrative to our anxiety about technology’s role in society. Rather than seeing phones as devices that isolate us, his example shows how they can facilitate meaningful relationships across distance and time. The fact that he specifically mentioned not judging people for using Android devices or having green text bubbles further reinforces this inclusive approach to technology. In a world where our digital choices often become tribal markers, Obama’s pragmatic, relationship-first approach to technology feels both wise and necessary. It’s a reminder that the tools themselves matter less than how we use them to connect with others.
About the Author
