Smartphone usage is embedded into our daily lives and with July being Cellphone Courtesy Month, it’s a timely reminder to be mindful of our digital manners. UScellular recently conducted a survey to understand how considerate consumers are while using their smartphones.
UScellular’s latest survey revealed the following:
59 percent of respondents said that using your smartphone while on a date is the most inappropriate setting, more than in a place of worship, in a movie theater or while having dinner with family.
Smartphone usage in movie theaters is becoming more acceptable, with only 53 percent of people considering it as inappropriate, an 11 percent decrease from 2024.
Concern is rising about device use around children as 40 percent now find it inappropriate to use a phone while spending time with their kids, a 16 percent increase from last year.
“As smartphones become more integrated into our lives, it’s easy to lose sight of everyday courtesy,” said Kyle Burbine, director of sales and operations for UScellular in New England. “We’re encouraging everyone to reset their relationship with technology in order to connect with what matters most, especially during moments when being present is more meaningful than being online.”
To help users be more mindful this Cellphone Courtesy Month, UScellular is offering the following tips:
For your ears only: Keep your phone’s volume low and use headphones like Apple AirPods or Samsung Galaxy Buds to avoid disturbing others.
Focus on what is in front of you: As annoying as it can be to see someone glued to their phone when they are on the move, 57 percent are annoyed when people seem focused on checking their phone when they are out and about with company. “Phubbing,” or the act of being ignored by someone who is on their cellphone, is not only inconsiderate but can also negatively impact your relationships with others. When spending time with others, it is always good practice to put away phones and to enjoy time with friends and family.
Don’t look down: Avoid using your device while on-the-go. Almost 40 percent of survey respondents said they’ve walked into someone or something while using their phone, so be sure to pause and look up to stay aware of your surroundings.
Model good wireless etiquette for those around you: Sometimes the easiest way to limit distractions is by placing them out of sight where they’re not readily seen or available. So maybe consider making your dinner table a device-free zone. By silencing devices and putting them in a basket in a different room during meals, you can connect with each other without distracting screens lighting up from notifications or hearing the ding of a text.
Be considerate when communicating: Practicing good mobile etiquette also means being thoughtful about how and when you are reaching out to others. Avoid behaviors that may frustrate others such as texting late at night, leaving a voice mail when a simple text will do, calling in response to a text or vice versa. And limit using abbreviations and emoticons unless you know the person appreciates them.
Try out US Mode: UScellular’s US Mode helps users customize native focus settings on your phone to reduce distractions and prioritize real-life connections.
UScellular is the fourth-largest full-service wireless carrier in the United States, providing national network coverage and industry-leading innovations designed to help customers stay connected to the things that matter most. The Chicago-based carrier provides a strong, reliable network supported by the latest technology and offers a wide range of communication services that enhance consumers’ lives, increase the competitiveness of local businesses and improve the efficiency of government operations. Through its After School Access Project, the company has donated more than $30 million in hotspots and service to help youth connect to reliable internet. To learn more about UScellular, visit one of its retail stores or www.uscellular.com. To get the latest news, visit newsroom.uscellular.com.
