Consumers Moving Away From Television, Says BT

Traditional forms of entertainment such as television and board games are being overlooked in favour of newer, more interactive technology, such as the internet, says a new report from British Telecom.

The telcoms giant found that rather than slouching in front of the television, watching programmes, an increasing number of people are now choosing the internet to pursue a range of hobbies such as online gaming.

During the survey, over half of online gamers said they would rather give up soap operas than computer games. The research also showed that its not just games enthusiasts that feel like this, nearly 77% of 11-16 year olds said they would rather play computer games than traditional board games.

British Telecom said online gamers see themselves as part of a community of like-minded individuals and are a very sociable bunch – 58% like to play online against new people and 25% prefer playing online as they compete against real people, while 50% enjoy it as it brings people together. The most startling fact the research revealed was that 17% of online games said they would find a world without online gaming almost impossible to live in.

Managing director of BT broadband and internet services, Duncan Ingram said: “This research shows that consumers are looking for more interaction when it comes to home entertainment. The advent of broadband brings a whole new social experience to console gaming by allowing gamers to take their consoles online and play against a community of gamers from all over the world.”

In September, the Online Publishers Association Generational Media Study revealed a growing number of people regardless of age, are choosing the internet over other forms of traditional media for entertainment.

BT: 0207 469 2337 www.btplc.com

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