3/4 of S'poreans won't cut back on mobile phone usage during downturn: survey

3/4 of S'poreans won't cut back on mobile phone usage during downturn: survey
By Pearl Forss, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 14 May 2009 2027 hrs

SINGAPORE: Three quarters of Singaporeans said they will not cut back on their mobile phone use during the downturn. That is because the mobile phone is quite an indispensable social tool, according to a survey.

Half of those surveyed in India and China will propose to their partners over the phone. But it is a no-no for nine in 10 Singaporeans, according to a survey by Microsoft Windows Mobile.

However, when it comes to break-ups, one in 10 thinks it is okay to do it via phone messaging.

The survey also found that most people use their phones everywhere. 65 per cent of Singaporeans use it even when they are in the toilet. Meanwhile, nine in 10 will answer calls when having a meal with someone.

But one instance where Singaporeans prefer not to be disturbed is in bed during intimate moments. 93 per cent will not take that call, the highest percentage across six Asian cities. In comparison, one in five Taiwanese will answer the phonecall.

One in 10 respondents has also shot a voyeuristic picture or video with their phones.

The survey also found that about half of all respondents used their phones to flirt with someone who is not their partner nor their spouse. That is the highest percentage compared to similar surveys done in India, China, Japan, Taiwan, and Australia.

http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/429262/1/.html