Cell phone boom hits Utah State
The wireless revolution is on its way, according to Newsweek magazine, with a highly noticeable and long-promised boom of cellular phone use.
According to Newsweek, the intrigue and attraction to the cell phone is only the beginning of the boom, with many types of wireless technology such as e-mail, instant messaging, digital cable, pagers, MP3’s, cable Internet access and digital cameras have recently increased in popularity.
Studies conducted by Newsweek magazine show the technology boom has dramatically changed and connected the world, allowing people to stay in constant touch with one another.
Verizon Wireless reported a 50 percent increase in cellular phone use in the past three to four years, with AT&T Wireless reporting a significant growth as well.
According to an online survey conducted by Newsweek, teenagers and young adults are one of the highest cell phone user groups who aren’t just touched by technology, but are “embraced” by it.
This is visible on the campus of Utah State University where students are seen talking on phones in almost every direction. Cell phones have become a necessity to many, students are saying.
Carrie Ellingson, a Utah State University junior majoring in public relations, said the best benefit of using one is that she never has to worry about how many minutes are left on a phone card or about paying an expensive long distance phone bill. She said she has had a cell phone for four years and does not even use her home phone line anymore.
“I always use my cell phone. It’s convenient because I can get a hold of anyone at anytime that I need to,” Ellingson said. “It’s a great way to keep in touch. I love it.”
Shannon Rhodes, a graduate of USU and a social worker at Sunshine Terrace, said she recently bought a cell phone for the main reason of safety while traveling. She said she feels much safer knowing she can contact someone if her car breaks down or if she gets into an accident.
On the other hand, there are still many people who dislike cell phones such as Brand Deming, a senior majoring in history, who said he thinks cell phones are disruptive and expensive.
“They make life too busy. I want to be able to go out and not be reached or bothered by a cell phone,” Deming said. “I just think that people can live without them.”