Royal Caribbean's new mega "smartship" may be damaging to smartphones

(TRAVPR.COM) UNITED STATES - March 26th, 2015 - Have you heard of Royal Caribbean’s new mega “smartship”, Quantum Of The Seas? The world’s first Web-friendliest cruise ship has been dubbed “the first cruise ship built specifically for selfies”, according to Conde Nast Traveler. However, what dangers may lie ahead for damaging your smartphone or tablet on a web-friendly cruise ship?

According to Stacey Vogler, U.S. Managing Director for protection plan provider, Protect Your Bubble, new dangers may await on the high seas. “From the obvious dangers that include increased drops and spills, to less-frequent dangers such as damage during exotic excursions, people need to be cautious. A cruise ship that encourages even more smartphone usage and selfies could prove costly for power users or children looking to capture and share every waking moment.” 

• Besides the phenomenon, what else might be driving this concern? A survey by MTN Communications found that mobile phones are now the primary means of connection when cruise passengers link to their Internet accounts.
• In 2010 it found 94% of the devices connected to MTN internet accounts on ships were desktop or laptop computers. Only 1% were phones. By last year, that split had turned, with 60% of the connections recorded as cell phones and only 20% laptops or desktops. 
• Tablet devices accounted for 5% of connections in 2010 and 20% last year, MTN said.

“Spring Breakers may increase their selfie activity on all cruises they plan in general this Spring, as more travelers and younger audiences look to capture and share vacation moments with their friends, families and social circles,” added Protect Your Bubble’s Vogler.

The company offers protection plans for consumers worried about drops, spills or malfunction of smartphones, tablets and electronics, in addition to insurance packages for travel and rental cars.

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