9 mobile phone etiquette that people must follow

Saturday, 22 November 2025, 7:32 pm

Mobile phone etiquette is important to maintain polite and respectful interactions in today’s digital age.

Here are nine mobile phone etiquette guidelines that people should follow:

1. Use silent or vibrate mode in public: When in public places like theaters, restaurants, or meetings, set your phone to silent or vibrate mode to avoid disrupting others with loud ringtones.

2. Avoid talking loudly in public: If you need to take a call in a public place, speak in a normal or low voice to avoid disturbing those around you. Consider stepping away to a quieter area if the conversation is lengthy or personal.

3. Text responsibly: Be mindful of the time and place when texting. Avoid texting while driving, walking, or during conversations with others, as it can be distracting and disrespectful.

4. Respect personal space: Don’t use your phone in situations where it invades someone else’s personal space, like taking photos or videos without permission, especially in private areas.

5. Use headphones in shared spaces: When listening to music, watching videos, or taking calls in shared spaces like public transportation, use headphones to keep the sound to yourself.

6. Avoid excessive notifications: Adjust your notification settings to prevent constant interruptions during meetings or gatherings. Respect other people’s time and attention.

7. Don’t text and drive: It’s dangerous and illegal in many places. If you must use your phone while driving, use a hands-free system or pull over safely.

8. Respect others’ privacy: Be cautious when sharing other people’s personal information, photos, or messages without their consent. Always respect their privacy.

9. Mindful of screen brightness: In dimly lit or dark environments, lower your screen brightness to prevent disturbing others with a bright screen. Also, consider using “night mode” or dark themes in apps to reduce glare.

Remember that mobile phone etiquette is all about being considerate of others and using your device in a way that doesn’t disrupt or annoy those around you. By following these guidelines, you can help create a more polite and respectful mobile phone culture.