I would say that this is symptomatic of the times in which we're living. People cannot stay contented with direct interpersonal contact, which is a crucial component of the "spirit" of Shabbat, and are literally addicted to these devices, hence the colloquial moniker "crackberry" for Blackberry. Erich Fromm's language of interpersonal connectedness and alienation is directly applicable- this dor slumps farhter into alienation, a self-inflicted pathology brought upon by their addiction to these devices. Another interesting area that bears some similarity is when it comes to dating and friendships- constantly being on the phone during dates and time spent with friends, unless you're a doctor, parent, or medical professional, is unnecessary, and demonstrates a lack of kavod towards the other person. This is another example of how these devices can lead one away from mitzvot, whether bein adam l'Makom, such as with Shabbat, or with bein adam l'chaveiro.
