More than two-thirds of UK smartphone users check their handsets before getting out of bed in the morning, according to a survey by digital market research outfit Toluna.

The research covered 2,000 adults in the UK and US, and found that 70 per cent of Brits switch on their phones before rising, slightly higher than across the pond where the figure is 65 per cent.

The study was commissioned to assess people’s thoughts on connected technology and its importance in everyday lives.

Increased smartphone use reflects the importance of being connected to the internet at all times and in different places.

A third of UK respondents admitted to checking their devices if they wake up during the night, while 58 per cent said checking their phones was the last thing they did before bed.

Paul Twite, UK managing director at Toluna, said: “With UK consumers active on the internet at all times of the day, and in all locations, it is important for marketers to be able to provide engaging content outside of traditional time frames.

“It is also vital to react quickly to trending themes and stories in order to meet the high expectations of an audience that is always switched on.”