A recent study conducted by Sanderson Studios for Tellme Networks Inc, a Microsoft subsidiary, has outlined that smartphone users are more inclined to buy a device that offers them a simpler and more efficient way to communicate.
The report highlighted that 75 per cent of people would choose a smartphone that allows them to compose a text message, search the web or dial a contact simply by speaking rather than by typing or using a touch screen.
The reason for this is that many respondents claim typing or touching the device can be distracting especially while doing other tasks at the same time.
“If you’ve ever tried typing or touching on your smartphone while walking down the street or paying at the checkout line, you know how distracting it can be,” said Anne Truscott, brand strategist at Sanderson Studios.
“But using your voice while walking or checking out is like walking and chewing gum at the same time; it just comes naturally. And we were surprised how many people said they’d feel comfortable using their voices to interact with their smartphones while in public places as well.”
In addition to this, the study also found that mobile phone etiquette is changing, with 71 per cent stating they are fine with being on the phone at a restaurant. As well as this an overwhelming majority said they would feel comfortable using voice to perform tasks on their smartphones while walking (93 per cent), exercising (92 per cent), and shopping and running errands (87 per cent).
In another study conducted by Sanderson Studios, it was found that people who spend at least one hour in their car five or more days per week, were more inclined to want more voice functionality in their device, due to the improved safety benefits.
“The research is confirming what we believed would happen as people more widely use smartphones to multitask while on the go, away from the home or office,” said Dariusz Paczuski, senior director of Tellme Mobile Speech at Microsoft.
“Our ‘say what you want and get it’ voice products and services are making it easier to get more done with your phone no matter where you are or what you’re doing.”