This everyday habit is a regular cause for arguments amongst couples

Using phones during mealtimes has been revealed as the leading cause of “tech tiffs” among couples, according to recent research. A survey of 2,000 adults identified the top 10 tech and appliance-related disputes sparking arguments between partners, with phone usage taking the crown as the most common source of friction.

The study found that younger adults aged 18–24 were the most likely to bicker about phone habits, while those aged 65 and older tended to clash over volume control for TVs, music, or gaming systems. A fifth of respondents admitted to arguing about the use of household appliances at least once a week, and a shocking 13% confessed they had considered ending their relationship over a tech-related dispute.

Following phone usage, the second most common arguement was over the volume of TVs, music, or gaming devices, while leaving gadgets and chargers lying around was the third most frequent cause for irritation.

Lara Brittain, a spokesperson for Currys, which commissioned the study, explained: “Our home tech is important to us, but people do get set in their ways – including couples. Which can lead to the odd argument here and there – and many of us can relate the perennial dishwasher debate, for example.”

The study also highlighted that more than half of couples living together hadn’t agreed on who does what around the house before moving in, leading to classic household disputes. These include disagreements over the correct setting to use on the washing machine or how to pack the dishwasher properly. In fact, 23% of couples admitted to arguments about the “right” way to load the dishwasher.

Despite these everyday frustrations, three-quarters of respondents agreed that managing household technology effectively is vital for maintaining a healthy relationship. When resolving tech-related rows, couples most often turned to the internet for answers, asked a family member or friend for advice, or visited a shop to consult an expert.

Lara Brittain added: “We’d hate for anyone to break up over an argument over devices or appliances and since our expert colleagues are well versed on the latest tech and household appliances, we’re on hand to help couples overcome their tech squabbles.”