Teenagers access internet primarily on desktops: study

Statistics say that smartphone sales are on a double-digit growth track, but a survey by Tata Consultancy Services has shown that desktops and laptops still remain the most popular mode of accessing Internet by teenagers.

According to TCS GenZ Survey, 44 percent of the teenagers spent time accessing Internet on home PCs and laptops, while 43 percent accessed it over smartphones. Even though computers are preferred for Internet access, the study states that smartphones are indeed the most coveted electronic gadget amongst teenagers in the country.

“Technology has transformed young India. The gadgets considered as luxuries earlier have swiftly become necessities making an impact on both their student and personal lives. The survey was undertaken to get a pulse of the digital habits of school students from class 8-12,” the Survey said.

In terms of the most popular application, Facebook ruled the roost with 86 per cent being constantly connected, followed by Google+ with 65 percent users. The survey found that boys are more active online and on social networking sites as compared to the girls.

The online learning format and popularity of do-it-yourself (DIY) guides, has also given a boost to Internet usage by teenagers. About 21 percent respondents said they used video chat to learn a new hobby, followed by school assignments (20.5 percent) and educational tutorials (15 percent).

WhatsApp was rated as the most popular instant messaging platform (71 percent), distantly followed by SMS (12 percent).