Discover the Company Karol G and Paul McCartney Trust for Phone-Free Concert Experiences

Founded in 2014 by Graham Dugoni, Yondr began as a simple idea: to create distraction-free concert experiences. Originating from the back of an RV in San Francisco, the company has revolutionized live events by providing lockable pouches that store phones during performances. Eleven years later, Yondr has secured over 20 million devices across more than 10,000 events globally, including performances by high-profile artists such as Paul McCartney and Karol G.

Yondr: Transforming Concert Experiences

The concept behind Yondr was to develop environments where audiences could focus on the performance rather than their phones. Dugoni recalls the company’s first event: a burlesque show in a biker bar in Oakland. This small beginning led to significant opportunities, including a pivotal partnership with comedian Dave Chappelle.

Innovative Phone-Free Policies

Before Yondr, phone-free performances were virtually non-existent. The company’s approach combines fan education and practical logistics to enhance the live experience. Attendees hold onto their locked pouches throughout the event, allowing phone access only in specified areas, akin to designated smoking sections. This strategy has been embraced by various artists, asserting its place within modern concert culture.

• Types of events catered to: concerts, Broadway productions, festivals.
• Artists using Yondr: Jon Stewart, Kevin Hart, Erykah Badu, and more.
• Notable shows including: Paul McCartney’s Santa Barbara Bowl and festival BURST in Amsterdam.

Yondr’s Growth and Impact

Yondr charges promoters a fee based on the event’s specifics, typically ranging from $3 to $5 per ticket. This pricing structure includes all services, from equipment provision to staff support. The success of Yondr has led to its adoption in schools as well, with over 2.5 million students using the pouches daily, particularly in districts like Los Angeles Unified, where a majority of secondary schools participate.

In recent years, Yondr has handled significant events featuring artists such as Garth Brooks and Bob Dylan. The company’s flexibility allows it to respond swiftly to last-minute requests or integrate into extensive tours.

Looking Forward to 2026

As Yondr prepares for future endeavors, it is expanding its role in global tours and new events, including performances by Iron Maiden and large-scale European EDM festivals. The company is rapidly establishing itself as a leader in creating phone-free concert experiences.

Dugoni emphasizes that achieving 20 million phone-free guests signifies a growing desire for genuine human connection. Through Yondr, audiences are encouraged to engage with each other and the performance itself, fostering a richer concert experience.