Hyperconnectivity in action: users of mobile social networks and new technologies

Abstract

Purpose – The aim of this research is to identify the characteristics that give rise to motivations to use social apps in light of behavioral concepts related to consumers’ desires and emotional values. Design/methodology/approach – Netnography is used as the main methodology to analyze and categorize user profiles of online social networks. These profiles are presented through conceptual headlines, which highlight the main characteristics of each user group. Findings – The results of the study show that many users have become dependent on the WhatsApp application, either for technological reasons or for social reasons related to fashion and status. Research limitations/implications – Few consumers actually explained the ways they use mobile social networks in the context of the procedures and level of communication performed. However, the influence of social contexts in the consumer environment is changing perceived values focusing on prestige and status to technological elements that the majority of consumers use. Practical implications – Practical implications are directly related to forming business connections in a less formal and more hedonic environment, improving market results while fostering user enjoyment. In addition, the ongoing updates to WhatsApp have brought new functionalities and improvements to previously weak features. Originality/value – Although other applications offer means by which to talk and send messages, WhatsApp continues to be (as of early 2021) the most used platform for conversation in Brazil. The sovereignty of WhatsApp is directly linked to its social value, which is related to the number of consumers who daily interact via the network.

Keywords

• Technological convergence
• Mobile social networks
• Usage behaviour
• Social value
• Netnography