The Apple iPhone started the trend but other mobile phone manufacturers were quick to follow and before you knew it you could access data from your mobile device – and now we want to know how many of Executive PA readers use their cell phones to access data such as emails. If there’s one device that is always worth carrying with you it’s surely the cell phone – not only can you make calls, but you can also send short messages to let the boss know you’re running late; access your emails away from your computer; and read the latest breaking news while on the run. According to recent research from mNet a staggering 97 per cent of Australians use their phone for more than just calls. Of those questioned 61 per cent said their phones are also used to access information services such as news or weather.

These figures are backed up by separate research from the Australian Interactive media Industry Association, who found that page views on mobile internet sites increased 17.3 per cent between September and December last year. Being able to access your emails even when you aren’t in the office is a great boost for time-poor PAs who can stay in touch during a long commute, but we wonder if it also means you rarely switch off from the office? So let us know – how often do you check your emails through your cell phones and do you think it’s a great tool for busy secretarial staff or an advance too far?