Small businesses are increasingly relying on mobile applications, Facebook pages for their companies, and employees working remotely through wireless technologies, according to a new survey from AT&T.

More than a third (38%) of small businesses said they could not survive without mobile apps or it would be a major challenge to not have access to mobile apps. Nearly three-quarters (72%) of small businesses indicate they use mobile apps for their business. GPS/navigation and mapping mobile apps are the most popular, with nearly half (49%) saying they use them for their small business.

The survey found a significant increase in small businesses that have adopted social media as a business tool, with 41 percent reporting they have a Facebook page for their business. Usage is up from 27% in 2010, representing a 52% jump in just one year. Additionally, of all businesses reporting that they utilize social media, 41% responded that they’ve seen measurable success – in terms of better communications and relationships with new and/or existing customers.

Four in ten (40%) of small businesses report that all their employees use wireless devices or wireless technologies to work away from the office. This is up from 24% in 2008 and is expected to grow to 50% by 2012.

According to AT&T survey also found that one-third (33%) of small businesses indicated that they are using cloud-based or software as a service. In addition, despite recent headlines and media campaigns, nearly one-third (32%) of small businesses surveyed acknowledged they do not know what is meant by cloud-based or software as a service solutions.

Four in ten (40%) of small businesses report that all their employees use wireless devices or wireless technologies to work away from the office. This is up from 24% in 2008 and is expected to grow to 50% by 2012.