Tools v Toys

Many people consider themselves “techies” because they own many of the latest tech gadgets, such as smartphones and tablets. What separates a true techie from pretenders is whether you use technology primarily as tools or toys.

A tool makes your life more productive, while a mere toy is something you enjoy doing. It is not enough to own the gadget; you should use the gadget to simplify your life.

To illustrate what I mean, I have created a table to illustrate a spectrum of uses for a smartphone that range from toys to tools.