Research from Textlocal, one of the country’s leading SMS platforms, has shown that the Welsh consider themselves to be the least ‘tech-savvy’ in the UK; however evidence shows that they are in fact amongst the most advanced when it comes to using mobile phone technologies for day to day activities.

 

Of those surveyed, only 15% of Welsh people stated that they would describe themselves as tech-savvy – suggesting that the majority of the population do not feel that they would be able to help others out with tech-related problems. 17% even described themselves as ‘oblivious’ to new technologies, stating that they don’t keep up to date with technology.

 

However, when probed about their smartphone habits, Welsh respondents showed that they are leading a mobile-first lifestyle, with 60% responding to text messages within 15 minutes of receiving one and 45% spending more than 28 hours a week (4 hours a day) online – showing that they are using technology for day to day activities.  The findings suggests that their tech abilities may be greater than their confidence levels indicate.

 

The most popular uses of smartphone technology for day to day activities include; 56% use it as their alarm in the morning, 67% use it to check social media platforms, 47% listen to music, more than three quarters use it to browse and shop online and 46% play games on their phones.  The most popular uses for a smartphone remain making calls (98%), sending SMS (92%) and taking photos (92%).

 

Although 85% of the Welsh respondents wouldn’t describe themselves as tech-savvy, more participants would describe themselves as ‘clued up’. Nearly a quarter (23%) said that they believe themselves to be as knowledgeable about modern technologies as the next person.

 

Jason Palgrave-Jones, Managing Director of Textlocal, comments: “Although Welsh people seem very happy using technology for day to day activities, their own confidence in their tech abilities is the lowest in the UK.  It’s clear from the research that the majority now rely on technology to undertake everyday activities, so it seems the Welsh are in-fact far more tech-savvy than they first thought!”

 

The full study and guide can be accessed for free here.