What Are the Benefits of Mobile Devices in the Workplace?

10 years ago, the sight of an employee using their mobile phone in the workplace wouldn’t have suggested they were being productive.

Today, in a post-COVID world where deskless work is the norm for many, mobiles have become a critical part of the typical professional’s toolset.

In fact, the number of mobile devices worldwide is expected to reach 18.2 billion in 2025, reflecting just how many people have more than one device and how many are likely used for work purposes.

Yet despite the benefits this technology offers, many businesses remain hesitant.

If you’re yet to be convinced by the use of mobile phones in the workplace, here’s what you need to know.

1. Enhanced work-life balance

Hybrid and remote work introduced a new way of balancing our jobs with our daily lives, and today’s workforce haven’t looked back.

That’s why a significant percentage of job seekers place flexibility among their highest priorities when looking for their next role. In fact, a People Management poll found that 77% consider the opportunity to work flexibly more important than a pay rise.

Mobile technology is key to facilitating this flexibility. Instead of being restricted to one device, the ability to work via mobile not only presents a versatile alternative, but also means they don’t have to be sat down at one specific location.

This freedom can contribute to a greater work-life balance. Whether it’s responding to an urgent query while on site or updating a task while picking up children from school, mobiles empower teams to balance work around their lives and personal commitments.

2. Increased productivity and efficiency

Another way mobile devices can benefit your business is through increased productivity.

With a mobile, your teams have greater access to what they need to perform their roles, regardless of their location.

For industries like real estate, where professionals will likely find themselves on site and separated from their colleagues but will still need to complete tasks and communicate in real-time, this is crucial.

Mobile devices are a far more portable option for these workers. They help teams continue to communicate, collaborate, access information and even perform tasks on the go.

This versatility also comes into play in challenging environments, where ruggedised devices like the Samsung Galaxy XCover 7, built to meet military testing standards, have the durability to perform where a laptop or consumer device isn’t an option.

3. Adaptability to change

In a post-COVID world, change has become business as usual and something all organisations should be prepared for.

With flexible working, the environments we can work from change. One moment we can operate from our homes and the next be on site, meeting with a client and still be conducting the same tasks.

This agility is the key takeaway for businesses considering deskless work, and adaptable, advanced mobile devices play a major part in achieving this.

With devices like the Samsung Galaxy A55 5G, complete with a 5nm Octa-core processor, your teams will have the processing speed to perform essential functions and remain connected in the field.

4. Improved collaboration and communication

The ability to seamlessly communicate and remain connected is what makes a successful, adaptable and resilient team.

Thanks to mobile technology, this kind of collaboration is no longer reserved for teams working in close proximity at a fixed location.

With mobile devices powered by reliable connectivity, you can achieve the same efficiency and collaboration, even when teams are spread across different locations.

And in a working world where flexibility is paramount, it’s a powerful way to foster a sense of engagement with remote and hybrid employees.

5. Employee retention and attraction

It should come as no surprise that today’s workforce values flexibility. In fact, a study by Statista found that 59% of employees without flexible work options plan to leave their roles within the year.

Mobile devices are once again crucial to making this a reality. The importance of reliable connectivity cannot be understated – these issues can impact the mental health and stress levels of your employees.

With flexible working, bolstered by advanced devices and resilient connectivity, you can not only reduce your downtime, but also facilitate the deskless working models that will make you more attractive in today’s job market and leave you better placed to retain top talent.

How Virgin Media O₂ Business and Samsung can help

If you're reconsidering mobile devices in the workplace, Virgin Media O₂ Business, in partnership with Samsung, are well placed to help you maximise the benefits of your investment. 

Having supported businesses of all sizes across various industries, we have the experience, technical expertise and array of customisable devices to deliver a service that aligns with your specific needs and challenges.

We’ve also built flexibility into our finance, leasing and tariff options, meaning you’ll only ever have to pay for what you actually need.