Want to understand Atlantic divide on mobile phones (cellphones), read Michael Mace's blog

Our friend and active blogger in the mobile space, Michael Mace at the Mobile Opportunity blog has been thinking about the differences in mobile phone (cellphone) culture between Americans and Europeans. I think its one of the very best pieces of insights into what the phone is starting to mean to us, and gives a lot of pearls of wisdom about the differences across the pond. For example, Mike writes:

"In the US, the cellphone is often viewed as a necessary tool rather than something to love. For example an MIT survey in 2004 found that Americans rated the cellphone number one in the list of inventions they hate but can't live without, edging out the dreaded alarm clock. If you're still having trouble picturing the difference in attitudes, look at it this way - many people in Europe feel about their mobiles the way that Californians feel about their cars. Okay? Got it now? The European love of mobile phones has several facets to it. Fashion. To many people in Europe, their mobile phone seems to be a fashion statement. It says something about you, much like your clothing..."

A great piece, very much worth reading. The full posting is here European vs. American phone use. Thank you Michael!