If you're looking for ways of getting quick communication, maybe texting is the way to go. People can't walk these days without having one hand balancing a smart phone. If that's the way people are going to live, it is the case that something that vibrates in their hand is going to get their attention more quickly than an email.

In this quote, Ray Tomlinson, a pioneering computer engineer known for his work in email development, reflects on the evolution of communication in the digital age. He suggests that if you're seeking quick communication, texting may be the most effective method. Tomlinson recognizes that in today's world, people are almost constantly connected to their smartphones, with many individuals having their devices within reach at all times. This constant accessibility makes texting an ideal tool for instant communication, as it catches people's attention quickly, especially in comparison to other methods like email.

Tomlinson highlights how smartphones have become an essential part of daily life, with many people finding it nearly impossible to go about their day without balancing their phone. The reference to "one hand balancing a smartphone" underscores how deeply integrated these devices have become into modern life. This ubiquity of smartphones means that communication methods like texting, which alert users with vibrations or notifications, are likely to get more immediate responses than traditional forms of communication like email.

He also points out that the immediate feedback loop created by texting—with its quick notifications and direct alerts—makes it more effective at capturing attention. Unlike emails, which can be checked at leisure or ignored, the sensation of a phone vibrating in one’s hand is hard to overlook. This reflects the growing preference for more immediate and direct forms of communication in our fast-paced, always-on world.

Ultimately, Tomlinson's quote reflects the shift in communication technology, emphasizing how the rise of smartphones and texting has transformed the way people interact. It highlights a broader cultural shift toward instant communication, where speed and immediacy often take precedence over formality or depth, driven by the constant presence of smartphones in daily life.