Does Owning an iPhone Make You Less Cheap Online?

There's no doubt that the iPhone is a pioneer into the world of smart phones, changing the way we interact with the internet and making our lives much, much easier.  Using the iPhone, web users are able to conduct business, surf the web, and even shop at the tap of a screen.  But if something changes the way we act online, can that effect our wallets?  Apparently, it can.

A new article in the Guardian details why iPhone users are more content with paying for content online, as opposed to regular web users.  Citing a study by the law firm Olswang, the Guardian reports that the upswing in pay-for-content programs like iPhone Apps have made users more willing to pay as they go.

For instance, 41% of iPhone users would be willing to pay for "catch-up TV," as opposed to 30% of general web users.  The study cited in the Guardian also showed that iPhone users are more willing to pay for other online content, such as online books, travel guides, and magazines.  There clearly seems to be a difference in the willingness to shell out the dough:  general web users hold their wallets more tightly, and iPhone users are willing to reach for the credit card.

But does that say something about the iPhone - or something about the iPhone's users?

For one, iPhone users tend to be wealthier than most people.  After all, if you can't afford food, then you probably can't afford an iPhone.  But if you drive three BMWs, the iPhone 3G S isn't exactly a major purchase.  As Apple Insider explains, the general un-thriftiness of iPhone users extends to other areas of life, as well.

A greater percentage of iPhone users as opposed to general population are not only willing to pay for movies on the web, they're more willing to pay to see a movie through "traditional" means - or, in other words, through a movie theater.

What's the lesson for you?  If you're an iPhone user who enjoys being frugal, stay conscious of your spending, and don't buy Apps that you don't think will be useful to you.  Instead, be wary of paying for anything online.  Ask yourself this:  would you pay for that content if you were using a regular laptop?  If not, maybe you shouldn't be buying it for your iPhone, either.