If he still uses his phone get him a long gooseneck phone holder that attaches to the tray table.
Lamicall Gooseneck Phone Holder for Bed - Overall Length 38.6in, Flexible Leather Wrapped Arm, 360 Adjustable Clamp Clip, Overhead Cell Phone Mount Stand for Desk, Compatible with All Cellphone (4-7”) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08MZGPMPX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_WQCE118SK6GKRX0S7JEB?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
if you want to use your smartphone, you could also uses a smart phone holder. https://www.amazon.com/Lamicall-Gooseneck-Phone-Holder-Bed/dp/B08MZGPMPX