Smartphones are everywhere! They’re seamlessly integrated into nearly every aspect of our daily lives, with an estimated 7 billion mobile network users globally.
With people of all ages attracted to the expansive array of perks, apps, and capabilities associated with smartphones, they’ve become a modern necessity. Smartphones have transformed the way we organise our lives, keep entertained, and enhance our health too.
Below, we’ve covered a few of the most significant reasons behind the ubiquitous nature of smartphones today.
Transforming communications
Communication has been revolutionised by smartphones. They make it easier than ever to stay connected with friends, family and colleagues, no matter the distance or time difference. We no longer rely on landlines or wait to receive letters in the post.
Now, we have so many ways to keep in touch. Just a few of the communication options on smartphones include:
- Instant messaging via apps like WhatsApp or text messaging, an inbuilt function on all mobile phones connected to a network
- Video calls on Apple’s FaceTime or through external apps
- Voice calls via social media platforms like Facebook Messenger
- Team collaboration on purpose-built software like Microsoft Teams
Smartphones carry a profound impact on personal and professional communication, opening newfound avenues for confidential conversations and open brainstorming alike.
Entertainment on the go
Another huge reason for the widespread popularity of smartphones is their role as portable entertainment centres! They offer an array of gaming and entertainment options from streaming services to e-books and action games.
Whether waiting for the bus or relaxing in a café, people can access their favourite TV shows, catch up on the news, or get engaged with an online bingo app on the move. The convenience of having a world of entertainment just a few taps away compels people to keep the latest smartphone models in their pockets.
Better productivity and organisation
Smartphones are powerful tools for professional skills and productivity.
With the ability to help us manage our emails, calendars, and daily to-do lists, smartphones are invaluable for anyone with a busy schedule.
Users can easily download specific productivity apps to help track their goals more effectively. Smartphones help to facilitate remote work, allowing flexibility for employees who need to travel on the job.
This capacity has been invaluable since the Covid-19 pandemic shifted working patterns, with Microsoft Teams claiming 280 million users by January 2023. In the final quarter of the same year, the Teams mobile app registered more than 27 million downloads globally.
Enhanced health and wellness
Beyond working productivity, smartphones have carried a positive impact on personal health and wellness. Numerous apps have been developed to promote physical and mental health, from diet and mindfulness subscription services to real-time activity tracking.
There’s an app for almost every sport or hobby, with many offering meditation techniques and personal progress plans too. Users may sometimes access online consultations with real health professionals through these platforms. In a way, smartphones have motivated many people to be more proactive about their health.
Smartphones for access, progress, and entertainment
Overall, the pervasive presence of smartphones in our society is easily attributed to their vast benefits. They’ve facilitated greater access to education, information, and self-care.
Mobile banking and organisational apps help people to keep their routines in order, while gaming apps and streaming services provide unlimited fun. Smartphones transform communication, provide more entertainment, and improve our health and wellness.
