A recent study has revealed that people in the United Kingdom are now spending more time using their mobile phones than watching television. This trend is being led by younger individuals, with those aged 15 to 24 devoting almost five hours a day to their phones. The Institute of Practitioners in Advertising (IPA) conducted a survey which found that while TV is still considered a relaxing activity, watching videos on a handheld device often leaves viewers feeling sad. The report also noted that mobile phone usage is consistent throughout the day, while TV viewing is typically limited to the evening. According to Simon Frazier, the IPA’s head of data innovation, there are distinct patterns in how people feel when using these devices, although it cannot be definitively stated that devices drive these emotions.
The survey, which included nearly 6,500 individuals aged 15 and over, found that the average person spends three hours and 21 minutes on their mobile phone each day, compared to three hours and 16 minutes watching TV. This marks the first time in the 20-year history of the survey that mobile phone usage has surpassed TV viewing. Dan Flynn, deputy research director at the IPA, explained that phones have become an integral part of how we consume content, connect with others, and relax.
The study also revealed that different age groups have varying habits when it comes to mobile phone and TV usage. The younger demographic spends less time watching TV, while those aged 65 to 74 spend almost five hours a day watching TV and less than two hours on their phones. Additionally, separate research has shown a shift towards social media as a source of news, with traditional news media struggling to connect with the public. The report also noted the rise of podcasters, YouTubers, and TikTokers, who are becoming increasingly popular but may not always provide accurate information. The report also highlighted the influence of populist politicians who are bypassing traditional journalism in favor of friendly interviewers or influencers who rarely challenge their views. This has led to the spread of false stories, particularly in the US under Donald Trump and in parts of Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe, potentially contributing to polarized political views. However, the report emphasized that despite the prevalence of false stories, people still value trusted news sources with a track record of accuracy.