Mobile telephony and its meanings to consumers: a comparative analysis between Angolans and Brazilians

Abstract

This article is intended to provoke a comparative reflection on the consumption of mobile telephony in Angola and Brazil. We interviewed consumers in Luanda and São Paulo, the biggest cities of these countries, in order to evaluate the practices related to the adoption of mobile information and communication technologies in different socioeconomic contexts. Based on the theoretical framework of the New Information and Communication Technologies (NICTs) and its consequences on consumption and culture, it was possible to identify differences and similarities in each country, with the discussion of benefits, risks and conflicts related to mobile telephony, and the development of specific consumption rituals in the use of mobile technology.

Keywords

• Telefonia celular
• Mobilidade
• Consumo
• Angola
• Brasil