Brits spend 95 hours yearly on phone for others' tasks
A poll of 2,000 adults found that organising family matters and social plans are common phone duties.
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Adults across Britain dedicate approximately 95 hours each year to managing 'life admin' tasks for other individuals using their mobile phones. This equates to nearly four full days annually spent on duties not directly related to their own affairs. The findings come from a poll of 2,000 adults conducted by OnePoll.
Common 'Life Admin' Tasks
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The poll identified several common tasks people undertake for others via their phones. Organising family matters was cited by 22 per cent of respondents, while 17 per cent handle social planning for friends or relatives. A further 14 per cent reported acting as unofficial therapists for their contacts. These unofficial responsibilities average one hour and 50 minutes per week.
Despite the time commitment, a significant majority of those surveyed do not view these tasks negatively. Thirty-eight per cent stated that performing these duties makes them feel useful, 29 per cent feel trusted, and 26 per cent feel needed. The research also highlighted that 76 per cent of respondents believe these everyday phone interactions are important for keeping relationships strong.
Generational Differences in Phone Use
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The study revealed differences in mobile phone usage across age groups. Gen Z individuals spend over 36 hours weekly on their devices, with social media apps (67 per cent) and WhatsApp (64 per cent) being primary uses. Phone calls rank only seventh among their most common activities. In contrast, individuals aged 65 and over still prioritise making and receiving calls (78 per cent) and sending text messages (72 per cent) as their most frequent mobile phone uses.
WhatsApp emerged as the leading platform for communication across generations, surpassing built-in messaging services for both messages and calls. The poll also indicated that 42 per cent of people have had their mood improved by content received on their phone, such as funny photos or thoughtful messages.
Tesco Mobile's 'Data Warden' Initiative
To acknowledge the value of these connections, Tesco Mobile appointed TV personality Vogue Williams as its first 'Data Warden'. Williams surprised individuals in London who were using their phones to connect with others, presenting them with 'Phoney Fines'. These were not penalties but rather surprise gift cards, intended to celebrate everyday connections and promote Tesco Mobile's Pay as you go Essentials service.
“We’re always being told we spend too much time on our phones, and I’m definitely guilty of being glued to mine. But half the time we’re checking in on friends, making someone laugh or helping sort the latest drama.”
Vogue Williams
Williams stated that while she is often engrossed in her phone, much of that time is spent checking on friends or resolving issues for others. She expressed appreciation for Tesco Mobile's effort to recognise these moments and reward people for staying connected.
The research also touched upon messaging etiquette, with the average response time to a message being one hour and 17 minutes. A notable division exists, with 27 per cent feeling guilty about instant replies, while 24 per cent admitted to taking hours or days to respond.
Laura Joseph, chief customer officer at Tesco Mobile, commented on the findings. She noted that phones are instrumental in maintaining connections, and often it is the smaller interactions that hold the most significance. The study was conducted by OnePoll.
Questions this report answers
+How much time do Brits spend on their phones for others?
Adults in Britain spend approximately 95 hours a year on their mobile phones managing tasks for other people. This is equivalent to nearly four full days annually and averages one hour and 50 minutes per week.
+What kind of tasks do people do for others on their phones?
Common tasks include organising family matters, which 22 per cent of respondents handle, and social planning for others, managed by 17 per cent. Another 14 per cent act as unofficial therapists for their contacts.
+Why did Tesco Mobile enlist Vogue Williams?
Tesco Mobile appointed Vogue Williams as its first 'Data Warden' to celebrate the value of everyday phone interactions that keep relationships strong. She surprised people using their phones to connect with gift cards, rewarding these connections.
+Do people feel good about doing tasks for others on their phones?
Yes, most people surveyed feel positive about managing tasks for others via their phones. Thirty-eight per cent feel useful, 29 per cent feel trusted, and 26 per cent feel needed as a result of these actions.
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