TIME magazine’s special wireless issue for this week takes an interesting look at how phones are practically now an extension of our minds and bodies.
The cover showcases more than 200 Instagram photographs from across the world; a mobile device captured each image. The magazine also features an in-depth, Qualcomm-partnered mobility poll that illustrates human dependency on smartphones and tablets. The poll tallied worldwide responses from 5,000 people online and by phone in June and July, and a whopping 84 percent said they could not go one day without a mobile device. Check out some of the results below; more findings can be seen HERE.
Mobile Use & Attitudes:
– 84 percent worldwide said they couldn’t go a single day without their mobile devices in hand
– If forced to choose between the two, 65 percent worldwide opted to take their wireless mobile device with them in the morning instead of their lunch; 44 percent would leave their wallets at home in favor of their device
– 61 percent worldwide plan to replace their phone in less than two years
– 50 percent of Americans say they sleep with their mobile next to the bed as do more than 80 percent of 18-24 year olds
– 32 percent of all respondents say that if it was their choice they would prefer to communicate by text message
– 30 percent said that being without their mobile for even short periods leaves them feeling anxious
– 23 percent of all respondents say they screen almost all their calls and tend to reply to many voicemails via text or email
Dating:
– 55 percent (76 percent of 25-29 year olds) worldwide had flirted with someone via text message
– 43 percent have used texting to ask someone out on a date
– 24 percent of respondents globally said they sent a text message to coordinate or commit adultery – including 56 percent in China
Parenting:
– 66 percent of people feel that their wireless devices have made them better parents
– 70 percent of parents think the benefits for kids of learning about technology outweigh the potential for distractions from studies
– The average age thought appropriate for a child to own a mobile phone is 13 years
Government & Politics:
– 75 percent worldwide think governments should not have the power to shut off wireless networks for the purpose of suppressing peaceful dissent
– In the U.S., 28 percent say they are better informed about the news and current events; in China, that number jumps to 79 percent
– 40 percent in the U.S. say mobile technology has strengthened the economy; in China, 81 percent agree with that
– 50 percent agree that wireless mobile technology made the government more accountable to the people
Business
– 26 percent say they feel guilty if they don’t promptly respond to a work-related message outside of normal work hours
– In the U.S. only 19 percent said it is easier for them to be away from the office because of mobile technology
Multi-Tasking:
– 64 percent (77 percent of 18-24 year olds) use their devices while watching TV
– 58 percent globally (74 percent in India) use their wireless mobile device while also using a laptop or desktop computer