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RESEARCH UPDATES AMERICANS' VIEW ON CELL PHONE ETIQUETTE
Americans More Cautious About Appropriate Cell Phone Usage
In All Places Other Than Bathroom
San Francisco, CA (September 3, 2002)
A scientific poll commissioned by online wireless retailer LetsTalk found that since 2000 there has
been a significant decrease in the percentage of Americans who are willing to use their cell phones
in public places including movies, restaurants and public transportation. The study, conducted by
Wirthlin Worldwide, also found that less than half of Americans find it acceptable to use their
cell phones while in a car and only 10% find it appropriate to use a cell phone while at school.
In addition, 28% said it was acceptable to take a call while in a restaurant.
The new 2002 research is similar to a study commissioned by LetsTalk in April 2000 (also conducted by Wirthlin). In the 2002 study, Americans were asked "In which of the following places do you find it generally acceptable to speak on your wireless (cellular) phone?"
Acceptable to talk on cell phone in car
2002 Poll: 46%
2000 Poll: 76%
Acceptable to talk on cell phone in restaurant
2002 Poll: 28%
2000 Poll: 31%
Acceptable to talk on cell phone while on public transportation
2002 Poll: 45%
2000 Poll: 52%
Acceptable to talk on cell phone in the supermarket:
2002 Poll: 53%
2000 Poll: 60%
Acceptable to talk on cell phone in bathroom
2002 Poll: 47%
2000 Poll: 39%
Acceptable to talk on cell phone while at the movies or in a theater
2002 Poll: 6%
2000 Poll: 11%
Acceptable to talk on cell phone while on school property including classrooms
2002 Poll: 10%
2000 Poll: (not asked)
"Despite an overall increase in cell phone usage, Americans appear to be much more cognizant of
their cell phone etiquette," said Delly Tamer, president and CEO of LetsTalk. "It's important to
recognize that Americans are beginning to self-police their wireless etiquette, especially as
leaders evaluate the pros and cons of banning cell phone usage in public places."
Wirthlin Worldwide conducted the survey in August 2002 by interviewing a representative sample of
1,001 Americans age 18 or older.
To read LetsTalk's wireless phone etiquette tips and guidelines, consumers can visit
www.letstalk.com/company/release_031406_guidelines.htm.
About LetsTalk.com
LetsTalk is an online retailer, distributor, and enterprise solutions provider for wireless service
plans and devices. LetsTalk.com is a customer-friendly place that helps consumers research and
purchase wireless products and services online. LetsTalk's Enterprise Wireless Management Suite
enables corporations to better manage and control their wireless expenses. LetsTalk's wholly owned
fulfillment center is uniquely able to customize and brand products. LetsTalk.com features one of
the largest selections of wireless products and services available, including phones, PDA's and
two-way email devices. LetsTalk is based in San Francisco and was founded in July of 1999.
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