How much time do Germans spend on the Internet? A current study on our digital usage behavior provides answers.
Digital devices increasingly shape everyday life: the smartphone has now become a constant companion. On the bus or train, at work or in a café: for many people, being online is part of their routine. But beyond the relief that digital networking brings, some people also have a growing desire to re-engage offline. This is consistent with a current study showing that many people want to consciously reduce their screen time to create space for personal meetings and offline activities.
As shown by a recent study commissioned by Postbank, in our society the smartphone is the most used device for surfing the Internet. With a weekly usage time of 24 hours and 86% penetration, it dominates respondents’ online time. The laptop follows with 67% and 11.5 hours of weekly use. Desktop PCs and Smart TVs are used for just under 10 hours, while tablets are used less, 5.7 hours. The trend of intelligent voice assistants is growing: 21% use this technology, and wearable devices such as smartwatches are also gaining popularity, especially among 18-39 year olds.
Digital Detox: Many people want to spend less time online
Despite the ubiquitous online possibilities, the study shows that many people want to voluntarily limit their Internet use. 17% plan to be online less and in particular to reduce online purchases. The possibility of avoiding video telephony is also being taken into consideration more and more often. Compared to the previous year, however, we note that the willingness to stream less has decreased: while in 2023 29% of those interviewed would have liked to stream less, this year it is only 18%. However, the tendency to reduce the use of social media remains stable: around 40% of those interviewed would like to temporarily give up Facebook, Instagram, etc.
Offline activities: Older users in particular want more freedom
The need for offline time is particularly acute among older generations aged 40 and over. 45% of this group would like to limit their Internet use in favor of other activities, compared to only 32% of younger people. Health reasons play an important role: around 34% of those interviewed said they wanted to avoid the negative effects of the Internet on their health. Other reasons include increased ability to concentrate and the desire to meet friends and family in person more often. The need for greater independence from constant accessibility is also growing, especially among older people.
The Internet remains indispensable for flexibility in daily life
However, for 12% of those interviewed the Internet remains indispensable and they would even like to increase the time spent online. The main reason is the flexibility offered by the Internet: more than half of this group appreciates the possibility of carrying out their activities independently of pre-established times. This is especially true for older users (58%), while for 39% of younger users, flexibility is essential. Another reason for increased Internet use is contact with people who are geographically distant.
Young people rely on smartphones and use the Internet intensively
Even among young people there is a clear trend towards intensive use of the Internet. The study shows that in Germany young people spend around 71.5 hours online per week, a slight increase compared to the previous year. This means that the downward trend that began after the coronavirus pandemic has stopped for the time being. Smartphones are also the preferred access device for young people at 91%, followed by tablets (49%) and laptops (44%).
Internet education: Young people are increasingly using the Internet for school purposes
In addition to recreational use, the Internet is becoming increasingly important for young people even in school contexts. The study shows an increase in online usage for school purposes to an average of 4.6 hours per week. This is a significant increase compared to 2019 with 2.5 hours. Postbank attributes this trend to the positive effects of homeschooling and digital educational offers that emerged during the pandemic.
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Interview Between Time.news Editor and Digital Behavior Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Müller. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the intriguing findings from the recent study commissioned by Postbank on internet usage in Germany. It’s fascinating to see how deeply digital devices have entwined with our daily lives. What stood out to you the most about the study?
Dr. Müller: Thank you for having me! One major takeaway is the sheer amount of time Germans spend online—24 hours a week on smartphones alone! It’s incredible but also raises concerns about the implications of such constant connectivity.
Time.news Editor: Yes, it seems smartphones are indeed the dominant device for browsing the internet. Yet, the study reveals a growing desire among many to consciously reduce their online time. What do you think is driving this shift?
Dr. Müller: That’s a great question. Several factors play a role here. There’s a notable increase in the awareness of the negative impacts of excessive screen time, including mental health challenges and reduced face-to-face interactions. Interestingly, 45% of people over 40 expressed a wish for more offline freedom, which highlights a significant generational divide in attitudes towards digital engagement.
Time.news Editor: So, is this trend toward ‘digital detox’ mainly a characteristic of older generations?
Dr. Müller: While it is more pronounced among those over 40, younger people are also expressing a desire to limit their use, albeit to a lesser extent. Approximately 40% of respondents aim to reduce their social media usage. There appears to be a collective recognition of the value of real-life interactions and the need to step away from screens.
Time.news Editor: It’s fascinating to see that although many want to cut back on their internet time, there’s still a significant portion, around 12%, who are looking to increase their online activity. How do you reconcile this?
Dr. Müller: This reflects a dual nature of our relationship with the internet. For many, it’s an essential tool that offers flexibility and convenience—something that resonates particularly with older users. The ability to manage tasks on one’s own schedule is immensely appealing. However, navigating the balance between utilitarian use and recreational overuse is a challenge many are still figuring out.
Time.news Editor: That balance is crucial. The study indicates health concerns as a motivator for reducing internet use, particularly among older users. Could you elaborate on this?
Dr. Müller: Certainly. Many individuals are becoming more attuned to how prolonged internet usage can lead to issues like anxiety, stress, and even physical ailments like eye strain. The desire for improved concentration and the need for better mental well-being are powerful motivators. This shift towards prioritizing health is encouraging, as it fosters a more mindful approach to technology use.
Time.news Editor: It seems that while there’s a push for less screen time, the internet remains indispensable for many. How do you foresee this evolving in the future?
Dr. Müller: The future will likely see increased dialogue around moderation and healthy usage standards. Educational efforts on digital well-being will become critical. As technology continues to evolve, I anticipate a greater emphasis on creating tools that allow users to engage mindfully rather than excessively. Ultimately, fostering a more intentional relationship with technology might redefine how we incorporate it into our lives.
Time.news Editor: Wise words, Dr. Müller. It seems that fostering a healthier digital environment is a collective responsibility. Thank you for sharing your insights with us today!
Dr. Müller: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss such an important topic.
