Among the new rules from the Ministry of Education, Science, and Innovation is the ban on the use of smartphones in the 1st and 2nd cycles of primary education, as well as the recommendation of restrictive measures in the 3rd cycle, which discourage the use of these devices in school spaces. The ministry, led by Fernando Alexandre, also suggests involving high school students in developing rules for the responsible use of smartphones in school spaces.

If students in the 2nd and 3rd cycles of elementary school share school facilities, the Ministry of Education recommends considering extending the ban to 3rd-cycle students as well.

To ensure the effective implementation of these measures, particularly in cases of bans, the Government suggests that "alternatives to smartphone use should be created that promote socialization and student well-being. This is especially true during breaks and lunch periods. These alternatives can take various forms, such as leisure spaces, sports activities, or games."

These rules and recommendations apply to all educational establishments, with the following exceptions: proven health reasons; students with limited Portuguese proficiency; those using smartphones as a translation tool or for educational purposes, duly authorised by the school.

In a statement, the Government stated that the recommendations are not binding, and schools have the autonomy to apply the rules and recommendations defined by the Ministry of Education.

The Government recommends that clear rules be established and properly communicated to the entire school community, such as indicating the spaces and times where smartphone use is prohibited or restricted, as well as explaining the exceptions.

Within their autonomy, schools can also define the sanctions applicable in case of non-compliance with the established rules, ensuring that these measures are proportionate and appropriate to the school context.

The Government also clarifies that the rules and recommendations established for 2025/2026 in school spaces apply to smartphones and other devices with internet access.

In this sense, phones without internet access are not covered by these rules and recommendations, although each School Group or Non-Grouped School has the autonomy to restrict or prohibit them in its internal regulations, if it deems appropriate.