Brits are planning for a virtual Christmas this year - and beyond.
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According to research commissioned by mobile network SMARTY, over half (55%) of people in the UK are going to spend December 25 with fewer people than they did last year due to the impact of the coronavirus.
Meanwhile, 26% will not be seeing the people they would normally celebrate the festive season with.
As the pandemic is altering Christmas for Brits, a quarter (25%s) of people will turn to WhatsApp video calls to keep in touch.
Meanwhile, FaceTime (22%) and Zoom (20%) will also be used over the Christmas period.
When it comes to time, Christmas morning itself looks to be the most popular time to virtually connected with loved ones, although 44% are concerned about poor internet connections, and 1 in 5 reckon some relatives won't be able to turn on the camera.
Whilst over a quarter (27%) of the nation have suggested the main focus of arguments this year will be on who to form a social bubble with, 41% are grateful for restrictions, suggested the new tradition of smaller gatherings will help alleviate annual arguments.
Indeed, 75% of Brits think future Christmases will be different too, as a result of new traditions made in 2020.
Analysing the findings with SMARTY Mobile, 'Man Like Mobeen' actor Guz Kahn said: "I’ve always loved hearing about festive traditions that friends enjoy and are annoyed by, definitely things I can relate to during my own family gatherings!
"So while the country breathes a sigh of relief to see the back of traditions like sloppy kisses from aunties and rigid seating plans, it’s brilliant to see the lengths the British public are willing to go to stay connected with loved ones over the holiday period.”
Sayed Hajamaideen - Head of Marketing and Propositions at SMARTY Mobile - added: “Christmas 2020 will be very different to what we’re used to, but the pandemic has taught us the importance of connection and new ways to stay connected with loved ones.
"SMARTY Mobile is all about keeping things simple and our no-nonsense approach gives choice and flexibility, something we all need a bit of in these ever-changing times.”