Role of Cell Phones in Human Lives

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Role of Cell Phones in Human Lives

Introduction

The current society is relatively different from the one that existed several years ago. This emerging society is continuously changing. The most significant features of the current age include the conversion, transmission, and power of information. Mobile or cell phones have emerged as flexible, comfortable, and affordable means of communication. Over a period of ten years, the mobile device has evolved from a basic communication tool into an influential aspect of life for most people in rural and urban dwellers. Mobile phones have a massive influence in the lives because of their convenience that allows a wide variety of users. Mobiles are a quick and more efficient method of transferring information. The mobile offers its user’s immense benefits. However, with any product or service that has several benefits, it is bound to have an equal number of problems. The paper seeks to examine the effect that mobile phones have had on the society and lifestyles in the current age.

The usage of mobile phones has been influential in the development of new and existing communication modes. The government and other communication stakeholders have greatly subsidized the sector to an extent that it is relatively affordable to use mobile phone facilities (Thulin, Hans, and Gustafsson 56). More and more people are increasingly communicating on the Internet, through text messages and calls. Increased exposure to interpersonal communication improves the communication skills particularly for individuals who are aware of their interactions with others (Thulin et al., 15). Mobile phones contain several applications that can be used to learn different languages, their pronunciation, usage, and context. Several other basic government functions such as firefighting, ambulance emergencies, and transport deliveries have also benefited from the introduction and use of mobile phones in the different sectors. At a personal level, mobile phones have intensified the bond between family members, colleagues, and friends (Ling 72).

Ever since the internet option was included in the mobile phone, the device has evolved into a channel to access the worldwide web. The opportunities available on the internet are enormous and directly benefit all its users including children and adults. Advanced mobiles such as smart phones have facilitated access to the Internet through several applications. Usability is perhaps the most beneficial aspect of mobile internet (Ling 47). The portability and flexibility of mobile phones has ensured that internet facilities can be accessed in almost every location from airplanes to subway stations. A related benefit of mobile phones is through real-time and internet advertising. The accessibility of mobile phones has allowed companies to use them for advertising purposes (Ling 23). Text messages and advertisements on the internet containing products and services from different companies are the current mode of promotion. In this way, massive volumes of advertisements have reached. Some companies such as Alibaba and E-Bay have been founded on the internet platform (Thulin et al., 34). More specifically, these online companies target mobile web platforms mainly because it has been established as a growing niche of consumers. This aspect of advertising is yet to be exploited fully. However, the recent financial outcomes are an indicator that the mobile sector is quite lucrative (Ling 27).

While there are significant benefits attributed to the usage of mobile phones, a similar number of problems have been traced to its usage. Mobile phones have improved the way through which human beings communicate. This benefit can also double up as a challenge to the genuine human interaction between human beings. Social media and text messaging have replaced face-to-face communication and this has contributed towards weaker ties in the society. Within family members and the workplace, human beings are unable to maintain healthy interpersonal relationships that involve basic communication. Increased mobile phone use has also contributed towards a higher number of psychological and cognitive complications (Goggin 46). A large number of employees in industrial and transport sector have been involved in critical accidents due to inappropriate mobile use. Mobile use has been discovered to be distractive enough to cause road accidents (Ling 21). Another way in which mobile use has been problematic has been through breaches of security and privacy. Mobile phones contain a vast wealth of personal information that can be used for fraudulent causes such as identity theft (Ling 19). Loss of privacy that originates from mobile and handheld devices can also be used by the government for wrongful reasons.

Conclusion

Mobile phones emerged as a popular means of communication and entertainment over a short period. This form of technology has managed to overcome the challenges of navigation, speed, and compatibility to produce a device that is able to incorporate messaging, Internet and entertainment (Goggin 22). In general, the mobile phone has revolutionized the way in which business, individuals, and states perform their functions. However, it has also created massive psychological problems for the same society. The new generations of children that have grown up using cell phones are evidence of the effect they have on growth and development. It is imperative to achieve a balance between these benefits and consequences of mobile phone use.

Work Cited

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Goggin, Gerard. Mobile Phone Cultures. London: Routledge, 2008. Print.

Ling, Richard. The Mobile Connection: The Cell Phone’s Impact on Society. Amsterdam [u.a.: Elsevier [u.a., 2008. Print.

Thulin, Hans, and Susanne Gustafsson. Mobile Phone Use While Driving: Conclusions from Four Investigations. Linköping, Sweden: Swedish National Road and Transport Research Institute, 2004. Print.

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