Link: Time spent online by adults in the UK jumped by nearly an hour in 2024, says Ofcom

UK adults' online time surged to an average of 4 hours and 20 minutes daily in 2024, a significant rise from 3 hours and 41 minutes in 2023, according to Ofcom's report. This increase is partly driven by young adults aged 18-24, who now spend over six hours online, primarily on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

The over-65 age group logs the least amount of time online, averaging 3 hours and 10 minutes daily. This demographic contrast prompts questions about future digital activity as the population ages.

Ofcom's detailed 116-page report highlights a digital dominance by Alphabet and Meta's platforms, where nearly half of the time spent online by UK adults is spent. YouTube stands out with 94% penetration, while Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram also show high usage rates.

Reddit has shown significant growth among social platforms, becoming the fifth most popular after a 47% increase in users from the previous year. This platform outpaces both X (formerly Twitter) and LinkedIn in user numbers.

Gender differences in online engagement show women spending more time online than men, with a 33-minute difference overall and an even larger gap among Gen Z users. Social media sites, particularly optimized for engagement, are a major draw for female users.

As digital consumption patterns evolve, Ofcom's insights are crucial for shaping future regulatory frameworks, especially concerning online safety and misinformation. The report also highlights a societal shift towards digital integration, affecting various demographics and online platforms. #

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