Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

Shutterstock/AntGor
smartphone

Are you looking? Half of Irish people check their phones in the middle of the night

The study found that the vast majority of us have access to a smart device.

OVER HALF OF Irish smartphone users check their devices in the middle of the night, an extensive national survey has found.

A study of over 1,000 people found how the vast majority of 18-24 year-olds would check their phones in the nighttime. The percentage declined as the age group increased.

Latest research from Deloitte found the top three nocturnal smartphone activities included checking the time, texting and using social networks.

The research also discovered:

  • Almost 9 in 10 of 18-24 year-olds use their devices when using public transport, meeting friends, shopping or watching television.
  • 86% of Irish people have access to a smartphone
  • Over 40% of all smartphone owners take photos everyday
  • Nearly 70% report using WiFi to connect to the internet

The study also revealed how our technology is affecting our behaviour and can lead to arguments with partners.

It found that the 25-34 year old demographic most frequently argued with their partner due to their mobile phone usage.

Deloitte spokesman Richard Howard said: “Smartphone penetration is higher in Ireland compared to other countries, including the UK, supporting the notion that Ireland is generally a tech-savvy country and its people have a desire to stay connected.

Smartphones usage can impact those who are around you. As with most emerging technologies, consumers will need to learn how best to manage their lives with smartphones, as opposed to having their lives run by their devices.

Mobile money

Nearly half of Irish smartphone users are viewing shopping websites or apps at least once a week while 14% said they had paid for products online using their smartphone.

But only 12% said they use their device to pay in-store for products despite the investment in device technology and payment infrastructure.

Reasons identified for the lack of take-up of this option include consumers’ views that payments as not secure enough (26%) in addition to questioning the benefits of using smartphones for in-store payments (25%).

Read: ‘Don’t let us die’: Homeless men’s fears as makeshift camp on south Dublin green grows >

Read: Alan Kelly and Brendan Ogle have been trading barbs on national radio (again) >

Your Voice
Readers Comments
13
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.