Internet-enabled smartphones are increasingly ubiquitous in the Western world. Research
suggests a number of problems can result from mobile phone overuse, including dependence,
dangerous and prohibited use. For over a decade, this has been measured by the Problematic Mobile
Phone Use Questionnaire (PMPU-Q). Given the rapid developments in mobile technologies, changes
of use patterns and possible problematic and addictive use, the aim of the present study was to
investigate and validate an updated contemporary version of the PMPU-Q (PMPU-Q-R). A mixed
methods convergent design was employed, including a psychometric survey (N = 512) alongside
qualitative focus groups (N = 21), to elicit experiences and perceptions of problematic smartphone
use. The results suggest the PMPU-Q-R factor structure can be updated to include smartphone
dependence, dangerous driving, and antisocial smartphone use factors. Theories of problematic
mobile phone use require consideration of the ubiquity and indispensability of smartphones in the
present day and age, particularly regarding use whilst driving and in social interactions