Almost half of Britons currently have a social plan stuck in the group chat, with staycations the subject most likely to be discussed but never booked, according to new research. The survey by Sky Mobile found that the humble messages have become the unofficial headquarters of modern friendships, with 71% using them to organise their social lives.
Group chat habits and statistics
The average person contributes to at least 151 group chats a year, though 47% of plans never make it off the screen. 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%).
Character types in 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 are the I'm Easy Friend, while one in five (21%) identify as The Organiser and 14% as The Ghoster.
Sky Mobile's response
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," he added. 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.
