Impact of COVID-19 on Mobile Technology use in adults in the United States

Background: Mobile technology (MT) has become essential in receiving information and services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Imposed quarantines could have led to varying adaptations of MT use. This study explored how COVID-19 impacted behavior, perception, and attitudes toward MT use in the United States. Methods: We distributed a pilot-tested survey online. Participants were MT users ≥ 35 years old. All participants responded based on their recalled experience of using MT before COVID-19 and their recent experience during COVID-19. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Results: The average age of the 1212 participants was 56.1±12.2 years (55% female). Daily use frequency (from ≤3 to ≥4 hours/day) and perceived necessity (from some need to a strong need) during COVID-19 significantly increased (p<0.001) compared to before COVID-19. There was a significant increase (p<0.001) in video calls/meetings, online education, grocery/food delivery, and ordering taxi/car during COVID-19 compared to before. Participants increased (p≤0.001) their attention to the physical, social, and emotional benefits of using MT during the pandemic. COVID-19 increased MT use and acceptance in the United States. Conclusion: The knowledge gained from this study will help remove barriers to using and accepting MT and provide directions for MT development in middle-aged and older populations.