There was a time when people said they could tell a lot about a person by looking in their handbag. The adage still holds true but handbags have been replaced by smartphones. Professor Trevor Pinch of Cornell University, in association with Nokia, found out about people’s personality by looking at the type of apps they choose.
The main personality types are:
Appcentric: They are hard working, energetic and productive. They have a lot of contacts, are tech savvy, and know how to make their technology serve them best.
They’re conventional and prefer data management, numerical and organizational pursuits. Appcentrics get the most out of the more functional apps on their mobile, which they often use as a pocket-sized computer. While they only download apps occasionally, they frequently use them.
Live Wire: Live Wires are active, down-to-earth people who enjoy technical, outdoor and athletic pursuits. Clever and investigative, they’re sociable, have lots of friends and often seek new experiences and adventure, relishing any challenge.
They are reliable and productive and this is reflected in their downloads, which tend to be a mix of health, fitness, social and travel related apps.
Creator: These are creative and imaginative. The creator may be a loner or a team player, but when they socialise they often find themselves the life of the party. A natural storyteller, they will not only rely on the creative capabilities of their mobile but often use social networking sites.
They are up on the latest trends and their creative spirit often drives them to bright colored phones, illustrating that they are fun and open minded.
Connector: Personable, confident and curious, they have a motivating personality. They have an uplifting and motivating personality with a knack for making friends and acquaintances in the online or real world.
They have a collection of apps that they use again and again – often carrying fun apps on their phone and apps that may be useful to others. They occasionally download free apps and their App catalog could do with a refresh.
Apprentice: They appear to be shy, but are not so. They’re inquisitive and clever with a solid circle of friends and a select group of passionate pursuits.
Apprentices are interested in downloading apps but don’t know where to start. Don’t be fooled by their shy appearance. There is a wild side just waiting to get out!
“With so many apps available, people can pick the ones most relevant to them,” Pinch said. “The apps know our tastes, our needs and even our secrets. If you ever want to really know someone, take a look at their apps – you may be in for a surprise!”
The study surveyed 5,200 smartphone users across 10 countries. The data analysed included app types and usage patterns among different personality categories. Professor Pinch also concluded that users are not usually impressed by large numbers of apps – they’d rather go for quality and utility.
If you want to know your personality type, you can take a diagnostic quiz at blog.ovi.com.