Nearly half of Brits currently have a social plan stuck in the group chat, with staycations the subject most likely to be discussed but never booked, according to a survey by Sky Mobile.
The research found that group chats have become the unofficial headquarters of modern friendships, with 71% of people using them to organise their social lives. The average person contributes to at least 151 messages a year, though 47% of plans never make it off the screen.
Plans most likely to be abandoned
Topics most likely to be dead before arrival are staycations (27%), pub catch-ups (25%) and birthdays (20%). Despite this, 57% say group chats are key to keeping friendships alive.
The messages are most popular with Gen Z, with 81% saying their social lives rely on them. In contrast, those aged 55 to 64 are more likely to prefer direct forms of communication, including calling friends on the phone (37%), emailing (10%), or individually texting (30%).
How often Brits check group chats
Brits check group chats an average of four times a day and send around 18 messages to organise an occasion.
Behind every plan is a familiar cast of characters including The Yapper, who sends long voice notes on everything but the plans; The Ghoster, who reads every message but rarely replies; and The Flake, who commits enthusiastically before dropping out.
When asked which character they relate to most, more than a third of Brits (36%) admit they're the I'm Easy Friend, while one in five (21%) identify as The Organiser and 14% as The Ghoster.
Sky's response to the findings
Ben Case, managing director of connectivity at Sky, said: "We're all familiar with group chats where the messages keep coming but the plan never quite gets made.
"Whether you're sorting the date, chasing the group or dealing with a last-minute change, Sky Mobile's flexible plans and data rollover help you stay connected to the people and plans that matter."
Sky Mobile's 99% UK network coverage and flexible benefits, including Mix and Roll, help customers stay connected to chats, plans and last-minute gossip.
