People have been doing similar even before mobile devices. Like all the idiots stopping in the middle of stairways to chat when I was in high school. The only kind of mobile tech people had then were pagers.

I agree - it would be nice if folks stood to one side and didn't keep walking or just stop walking while texting in public.

I've come close to ramming someone with a full cart of groceries when they just do the dead stop. lol Though I admit I find them amusing.

And I've used a phone in a store to locate my shopping partner more than once - but I don't then stay on the thing. (I'm there to shop.).

Texting in a car is egregious. I think losing a license for that offense would be great. People die from others doing it . It needs to stop.
And yes everyone thinks "I'm fine doing it - I've got GREAT reflexes" - No you don't.

Because people aren't allowed to exist in public spaces? Get over yourself.

I use technology but not driving or to exclusion of others around me common courtesy and never while driving ever that is dangerous have a hands free Bluetooth for driving

You do you, but it sounds like youre in a lather most of the time. Wireless technology is here to stay, so either we figure out how to integrate it and make use of it, or we just have an even shittier life and do nothing.

A few months ago, I saw a woman pull into the middle of a 4 way stop, then stop her car there blocking traffic in all directions because she was so absorbed in her cell phone conversation.

Those inconsiderate bastards ignoring the strangers around them while sending messages to people they know. The fucking nerve of them.

Exactly.

At the gym:

Me: "May I use that machine while you are using your phone?"

Most men say yes. A few jackasses insist they are resting between sets.

In Washington State, the new Distracted Driving Law takes effect July 23, 2019.

"The law forbids virtually all use of handheld gadgets such as phones, tablets, laptop computers and gaming devices while driving."

[seattletimes.com]

Texting and driving or operating machinery is dangerous. Otherwise, it’s just inconvenient/inconsiderate sometimes, to those not partaking.
I’m very introverted, plus have several chronic illnesses. My connections to the world and family/friends is largely online, social media, text, emails. I don’t talk on the phone except when necessary or to a very few special people.
I’m 58; all this technology is new in my lifetime. I’m glad to have it, because without it, I’d be a hermit!