EZ Texting Survey: Majority of Americans Read and Respond to Text Messages Within 15 Minutes

Survey also reveals that the number one feeling associated with text messages is curiosity and that Millennials are most anxious when separated from their mobile phones

SANTA MONICA, Calif — May 5, 2021 — Americans are very dependent on their mobile phones, and this dependence elicits a range of emotions, according to a new survey byEZ Texting, the leader in SMS marketing solutions for small & medium business.

The survey of more than 2,000 U.S. adults revealed that most Americans are eager to receive and respond to text messages. It also revealed that Americans report feeling conflicted—anxious, disconnected, out of touch, and stressed but also present, relaxed, free, and relieved—when they don’t have their phones. This is particularly true of Millennials.

“EZ Texting is in an industry-leading position to analyze text behaviors and form invaluable insights from over 210,000 customers and use this information to elevate the success of others,” said Norman Happ, CEO of EZ Texting. “Bringing this intelligence to our customers is a part of our overall value proposition, and we’re excited to share findings that can help them continue their success in 2021.”

“Americans spend a lot of time on their mobile phones, and they don't like missing a text - most of them are checking for new messages multiple times an hour.” said Norman Happ, CEO of EZ Texting. “This survey underscores why texting is such an effective way for businesses to communicate with current and potential customers. Our data shows that most customers read and respond to texts within an hour.”

Americans keep their phones at the ready and check texts often

Most Americans (88%) say they usually have their phone within reach, including 58% who say they always do. They also don’t like to miss text messages; a majority check their phones frequently and read and respond to text messages promptly:

• A majority (70%) of Americans check their phones at least once each hour; 23% check them every few minutes.
• 79% of all Americans read text messages within 15 minutes of receiving them.
• 72% of all Americans respond to text messages within 15 minutes.

The top three feelings Americans report experiencing when they receive a new text message notification are curious, happy and excited. Yet, when people are away from their phones, they feel disconnected, out of touch and anxious. This is closely followed by two positive emotions: relaxed and free.

When it comes to our relationship with our phones, it’s complicated

This overlap in these positive and negative emotions suggests that our relationships with our mobile devices are complicated. There also appears to be some demographic divides in our willingness to unplug:

• Younger Americans have stronger feelings—both positive and negative—about being without their phones, suggesting mobile phones are more important to them.
• Nearly a third of 18-29 year olds feel anxious without their phones, compared to just 14% of those over age 60.
• Older Americans have fewer feelings in general about their mobile phones, suggesting a lower dependence on them.

“We rely on our phones for so many things— It’s an essential part of our lives,” added Happ. “It has become our primary lifeline to the people—and the businesses—that matter to us.”

About EZ Texting

EZ Texting is a SaaS company that delivers the fastest, easiest and most reliable way to connect. It has served over 210,000 customers and is the #1 text marketing platform for business users. The messaging solutions allow businesses to quickly and effectively reach and engage their mobile audiences. With employees around the world, EZ Texting is continuously recognized as a Best Place to Work, as well as a top product for small and mid-market businesses. The company is backed by Investor AB, Morgan Stanley Expansion Capital, ROCA Partners, and CIBC. To find out more, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.