Poll sheds light on US mobile searching habits

'Um, where's the nearest pizza parlour?'

Posted in Mobile, 22nd August 2006 10:39 GMT

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A poll commissioned by Tellme Networks reveals what Americans are looking for when they're on the move, and where they are looking for it.

And it appears what they're usually looking for is food.

Harris Interactive asked almost 1,500 Americans how they used Directory Assistance services (the 411 service) and what alternatives they would consider.

According to the survey, 63 per cent of Americans use 411 when driving - hopefully with some form of hands-free kit - but seven per cent will happily boot up their laptop to find a phone number while in transit.

Information on bars and restaurants was the most popular subject of enquiry, with an unsurprising burst of interest in pizza on a Friday evening. Shopping came a close second among men in their 30s and women of all ages.

When it comes to types of food, those in their 30s showed traditional tastes, looking for steakhouses, Mexican and BBQ food, while their older contemporaries were searching for Chinese and seafood.

But 411 isn't the only source of information, and five per cent admitted driving to a Wi-Fi hotspot to get an internet connection, while around a third have stopped to look at the directories in a phone booth.

Calling a family member is the preferred option, with mothers and wives still being the first port of call when a number or address is needed. ®

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