What I find interesting in watching people is what appears to be an increasing need/wanting to be engaged through technology - email, IM, gaming, reading, socializing etc

Its amazing to see how many people on the train in Hong Kong are either talking on their mobile phone, paying a game, texting or simply just playing around with their phone (features).

AND/OR

Maybe its wanting to be connected without having to engage in face to face contact. Hence people sending emails before picking up the phone or walking over to a desk to speak with someone.