How obsessed is too obsessed with your phone?

Virgin Mobile Canada issued a press release earlier this week in anticipation of Valentine’s Day. They make it sound innocent enough, but the second paragraph of the release reveals an obsessive statistic: 56 percent of Canadians agd 18 to 34 would prefer holding their mobile phone than their Valentine’s hand, and 40 percent would rather spend a week away from their lover than their phone. Really? Are we that disconnected from face-to-face relationships that we’d rather have a phone than a lover? I’m sure the survey results aren’t indicative of the entire Canadian population, which is a relief of sorts. Seriously, guys, what would you rather feel, the caress of a lover or the cold plastic and metal of your mobile phone? Unfortunately, given this survey, that’s a serious question.

“Clearly, people have a deep love affair with their mobile phones, especially younger Canadians, and this survey shows just that,” said Nathan Rosenberg, Virgin Mobile’s Chief Marketing Officer. “That said, Virgin Mobile is happy to report that love is still alive, despite the deep bond that some people have with their mobile phone so we don’t think there is any reason to be jealous on Valentines Day.”

Ok. Fine. To the 56 percent, you go hold your mobile phone on Valentine’s Day. I’ll be glad to take your girlfriend on a date.]]>