Digital Etiquette
An illustrated guide for new technology.
Etiquette (/ˈɛtɨkɛt/ or /ˈɛtɨkɪt/, French: [e.ti.kɛt]) is a code of behavior that delineates expectations for social behavior according to contemporary conventional norms on how not to be a dufus within a society, social class, or group. — Wikipedia
- Don't make others think you have somewhere to be. Avoid checking notifications while talking with a friend, waiting for the cashier, or similar situations.
- It's often more appropriate to wait and look at notifications on your phone, rather than look at them immediately on your watch.
- Talking to your smartwatch may make friends and strangers think you're addressing them. Only speak a command if you're alone, or after explaining what you're doing.
- Although you can boop your smartwatch with your nose to activate it when your hands are dirty, this is not appropriate in polite company.
- A smartwatch with a backlight can be a distraction in movie theaters. Make sure to turn yours off or disable notifications before the movie starts.
- Your fitness tracker should match the occasion. Some designs are appropriate for formal business dress, some for sports or exercise. A few may be suitable for both.
- Don't frequently check your fitness tracker's display while chatting or walking with others. An exception may be made if you are using it to encourage others during a workout.
- When organizing plans at a bar or restaurant, place your phone on the table. Your friends who have already arrived will feel included when your receive a message from others in your group.
- Consider how important your conversation is before checking a notification on your phone. Either wait until later to check, or wait until a pause in conversation.
- Turn off notification sounds unless you're alone. They may disturb others around you.
- The restaurant is not a proper place to use your phone. Wait until after you leave to check your messages or make a call.
- When you're in a darkened space such as a bar or airplane, dim your backlight before using your phone or tablet.
- Don't wear your Google Glass in public places.
- …especially at bars or movie theaters that explicitly disallow them.
- Wear your Google Glass while biking, skiing, or during other sports.
- Always remove your Google Glass before entering a public restroom.
- If you have a disability, it may be appropriate to wear your Google Glass in other contexts.
- Do not fly your drone close to people, pets or livestock. Do not fly near a wildfire.
- Check the map before flying your drone. Do not fly in US national parks or near airports.
- Do not fly your drone while drunk. Definitely do not fly your drone over the White House while drunk.
- Be conscious of other's privacy when flying your drone. Don't fly in areas where you might make someone uncomfortable. Remember, for many people drones are a fearful technology.
- Get permission from event organizers before flying your drone at races and sporting events.
