Over half of us use mobile in bed, latest survey shows (again)

New research released today has found that our obsession with mobile devices could in fact be affecting our relationships, as Brits admit to being more interested in status updates and emails than conversation with their partner – not to mention using their mobile devices on the toilet, in bed or during sex.

The study, commissioned by UK technology manufacturer, Storage Options, explored the tech usage habits of the nation, and revealed a worrying majority unable to go even a few minutes without an electronic device to hand. More than half (57%) of people surveyed admitted they regularly use their mobile devices in using them while sat on the toilet and one-in-20 people even confessing to using their devices during sex!

Checking emails, surfing the net or updating social network sites also emerged as another area of obsession, with almost half (49%) admitting to checking their tablets instead of properly listening to their partner, and 35% of people finding the amount of time their partner spends on their tablet device even more annoying than them not doing the housework!

In addition, the study also highlighted that one-in-five of us actually set a time limit for our partners to use their devices, while just under half (45%) of respondents admitted that they can’t go more than an hour without using or checking their technology.

Interestingly, the research found that stress levels at not having access to mobiles phones or tablets are at their highest in Northern Ireland (36%) and the South East of England (34%) with respondents feeling like they will be missing out on vital information if they had to go without their mobile devices for 24 hours.

Despite all of this, 40% truly believe that their tablet or mobile device has made them more efficient – whether that is in their personal lives or in a work capacity.

*Research carried out on a sample size of 1,000 by YourSayPays on 12/09/12 on behalf of Storage Options