Mobile And Internet Use Soars

Mobile and internet use in the UK has increased by the greatest amount compared with other communication services, according to Ofcom’s latest annual report.

The 365 page report shows that people in the UK are spending more time using communication services than ever before but are paying less for them.

Between 2002 and 2007 the time users spent talking and texting on their mobiles doubled, up from five minutes to 10 minutes each day, while the time spent on PCs and laptops has grown from six minutes to 24 minutes per person every day.

However, while usage continues to increase, consumers are getting more for their money by buying phone, internet and TV bundles, as well as switching providers to get the best deal.

Broadband prices are lower than ever before as well, with the average household spending just £9.45 on internet and broadband connections in 2007.

Take-up of broadband through a landline is up 6% in the last 12 months, as a result of consumers upgrading from dial-up access.

TV-watching has only increased slightly, up to 218 minutes each day in 2007 from 216 in 2006, though the report found that people are watching TV using PVRs and services such as BBC’s iPlayer to view programmes online more than before.

People are also increasingly listening to the radio online – with the number of people listening via the internet rising to 14.5 million by May 2008, up 21% from 12 million in November 2007.

Peter Phillips, partner, strategy and market development at Ofcom, said: “We are spending more and more time with our communications devices but spending less on them.”

He added: “Our devotion to watching, listening and staying in touch wherever and whenever we want shows no sign of diminishing and, with healthy competition, overall prices offer increasing value for money.”

Ofcom: 020 7981 3040 www.ofcom.org.uk