Brush up on mobile phone etiquette

Though it may seem hard to believe given their current status in most people’s lives, mobile phones were a relative rarity as recently as 20 years ago. But those days are a distant memory, as forecasts from Ericssson & The Radicati Group indicate that there are 6.64 billion smartphones in use as of 2022. Simply put, mobile phones are everywhere, even if proper mobile phone etiquette is not always so commonplace.

Mobile phone etiquette is even more important given the increase in mobile phone usage. Brushing up on mobile phone etiquette for modern times can ensure users aren’t overstepping boundaries or making enemies when spending time on their smartphones.

– Avoid round-the-clock texting. Text messages are how many people now keep in touch with family and friends. In fact, data from the wireless communications trade association CTIA indicates that 2.1 trillion text messages were exchanged in 2020, an increase of 52 billion messages from the year prior. The popularity and convenience of texting is undeniable, but individuals should avoid texting when in the company of other people. Doing so makes others uncomfortable and can adversely affect the quality of discourse between smartphone users and the people with whom they’re engaging in in-person conversation. When in others’ company, resist the temptation to check and reply to text messages.

– Avoid using speakerphone in public. Everyone has been there and undoubtedly wished they weren’t. Whether it’s been at a grocery store, restaurant, park, or another public setting, hearing someone else carry on a conversation on speakerphone is a less than enjoyable experience. In fact, a survey from Expedia found that 53 percent of respondents felt making calls on speakerphone while in public was the most annoying mobile phone habit. Speakerphone should only be used in private and only among people who are involved in the call.

– Turn notifications off in public and when spending time with others. Notifications have become a difficult-to-ignore component of smartphone usage. Researchers at Duke University found that the average person received between 65 and 80 notifications per day. That means 80 potential interruptions each day, and 80 times those around users, including coworkers, family and friends, may grow upset by being interrupted by a notification. Turn off notifications when spending time with others and when visiting public places that tend to attract crowds, including movie theaters and restaurants.

– Avoid watching videos or listening to music in public. Unless your earbuds or headphones are with you at all times, resist the temptation to watch videos or play music on your phone when in public. Doing so disrupts those around you and could lead to confrontations.

Mobile phones are everywhere, which only underscores the importance of practicing proper mobile phone etiquette, particularly in public settings.