Internet Trends of 2023

The internet has become an integral part of our daily lives, with people spending an average of over 6½ hours online each day. However, the way we use the internet is evolving, and recent data reveals some surprising trends. While "finding information" and "staying in touch with friends and family" remain the top motivations for going online, entertainment content is quickly gaining ground. Watching videos, TV shows, and movies now ranks third among internet users' primary reasons for using the internet, with streaming services like Netflix and YouTube capturing a significant share of online time.

One of the most interesting shifts in recent years has been the decline in interest for online news content. Despite the political and economic challenges facing many people, fewer than half of internet users now say they are very interested in news, down from 63% in 2017. Meanwhile, the popularity of adult content remains high, with data suggesting that people spend nearly as much time-consuming adult content online as they do reading news.

When it comes to finding information online, search behaviors vary by age, but young people are still avid users of search engines like Google. However, younger internet users are more likely to adopt a "portfolio" approach, turning to social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to research brands and products. This trend highlights the growing importance of social search and the opportunities it presents for businesses.

As we move further into 2024, it's clear that the internet continues to shape our lives in profound ways. From entertainment and news consumption to online shopping and social connection, the digital landscape is constantly evolving. By staying attuned to these trends and adapting their strategies accordingly, businesses and content creators can better engage with their audiences and thrive in an increasingly connected world.