A recent Ofcom report suggests that the average Brit spends more time using tech devices and engaging in activities such as chatting on social networks and texting than they do sleeping. The communications watchdog revealed that the average UK adult spends around 8 hours 41 minutes using media or communications devices, compared with the 8 hours 21 minutes of an average night's sleep.
Multi-tasking on different devices among the adult population meant that they were able to squeeze in even more media and communications activities daily. 16-24 year olds were found to spend the most time on their tech devices, cramming over 14 hours of use into 9 hours and 8 minutes each day as they use different devices at the same time. Including multi-tasking between devices the average UK adult had a total use of over 11 hours every day in 2014, over 2 hours extra compared to results obtained back in 2010.
Teen geniuses
Interestingly, according to the survey of 2,000 adults and 800 children, teens aged 14 and 15 are the most technology-savvy people in the UK as they are the first generation to benefit from broadband and digital communications when growing up.
The study showed that Britons hit their peak confidence and understanding of technology during their mid-teens and from there, it drops gradually to our late 50s, with a rapid decline from 60 and beyond. The research found that 6 year olds could claim to have the same understanding of communications technology as 45 year olds.
"Our research shows that a 'millennium generation' is shaping communications habits for the future. While children and teenagers are the most digitally-savvy, all age groups are benefitting from new technology," said Ed Richards, Ofcom Chief Executive.
Media addicts
Figures also reflect that Britain is turning into a nation of media addicts; 44 per cent of households now own a tablet, up from a 24 per cent a year ago, 88 per cent of young adults aged 16-24 are said to own a smartphone, and are accessing it for 3 hours 36 minutes each day, nearly three times the 1 hour 22 minute average across all adults.
Are you addicted to your devices? If rushing to the toilet do you quickly grab your smartphone or tablet?
