Originally Posted by NickW
Maybe I fly too much with European carriers, but my experience is generally that the IFE is not turned on until well after takeoff and is off again well before landing, and that carryon items are asked to be stowed in those same periods.
On US carriers, I've found the audio program is almost always available (which would be inconsistent with a ban on portable CD players, mp3 players, etc.).
Also, I've never seen anyone asked to put away their books, magazines, or other personal items at takeoff or landing. In fact, on United they now remind you prior to landing that you should have your cell phone handy if you want to use it while taxiing, since the seat belt sign will prohibit retrieving it from a stowed location.