Britons now send an average of 58 hours of voice notes per year, according to a new poll. However, 62% of recipients admit to suffering from 'voice note fatigue', highlighting a generational divide in communication preferences.
The survey, commissioned by Heineken, found that people typically send six voice notes daily, each lasting about 95 seconds. One in 20 respondents reported receiving a voice note longer than 10 minutes, which some critics liken to an 'audition monologue'.
Debrett's, the etiquette authority, advises that voice notes should be under two minutes. 'Think about what you’re going to say before you press record and stick to your subject,' the guidance states.
Voice notes are particularly popular among Gen Z, but older generations often view them as a symptom of rising narcissism and fear of direct interaction. The Heineken campaign aims to encourage more in-person communication, which the company says provides opportunities for people to drink beer.
