More power to you Cranky Codger! Yes smartphones are great for emergencies, paying bills & keeping in contact however everyone should practice electronic etiquette and put phones away when face to face socially, at work, etc.
I won't use the self checkouts at Woolies because I'd rather keep someone in a job. Hate the self check machines in Kmart too. Many times I've seen the queue and just put back the item and walked out.