YouGov data shows that texts are still number one

30 years after its inception, the humble text message still ranks as the most popular smartphone feature in the UK, closely followed by making calls and taking photos, according to analysis of You Gov data by phone accessory supplier Case Monkey.

That textual feeling

Since the first text message was sent by Neil Papworth on 3rd December 1992, analysis of recent data from YouGov - as commisioned by Case Monkey - has been revealed that despite almost three decades of advancement in device technology - and app variety - text messages still rank as the most regularly used function of smartphones.

79% of British adults regularly use their smartphones to send texts, which is the highest percentage across the breakdown of activities. More modern uses such as internet browsing and checking social media trail behind.

In terms of other smartphone activities, reading books, watching TV and listening to radio are among the least popular things to do. After texting, 68% of British adults were found to use their smartphones to take photos, while the third most popular activity is voice calling (61%). Despite the high visibility and popularity of social networks in the media, the report has found that only half of British adults (53%) use their devices to access apps like Facebook and Snapchat.

Other leisure activities recorded very low numbers, such as listening to radio (15%), watching TV (14%) and reading books (12%). Audio messaging, using office software (word processors, spreadsheets etc) and remote management of smart appliances were tied for the “least used function” of smartphones on just 11%.