For Kosinski and other reality television stars, competing provides an experience that few Americans can even imagine — a digital detox. The reality TV experienceHaving to surrender phones and other devices is typical in the reality TV space, as producers and showrunners want to prevent spoilers before the show airs. On “The Challenge,” contestants can be without their devices for even eight or nine weeks, depending on how long they remain in the competition. On “The Challenge,” contestants are allowed to talk with their families only 10 minutes twice a week. “The sad reality is like, when you get your phone back, you have to go back to work,” Kosinski said.