Kasia Davies
Research expert covering the German market
Internet usage in Germany - statistics & facts
For many it is unimaginable to live without internet access. Even over the past 10 years, the internet has developed immensely with an increase in connection speed not just in major cities but also in more rural areas.
Not only has the number of people who use the internet risen but so has the frequency with which they use it. A rising number of German internet users go online several times a day. This is likely due to the ease with which one can access the internet and the convenience it offers. In Germany over 90 percent of households now have internet access compared to just over 60 percent in 2006.
Ultimately, access to the internet is only going to grow and become more convenient, and although social media is a fun hobby for many and for some even a profession, it is important to be aware of the potential negative effects. For social media companies the safety of the user is not always their primary concern, therefore it is up to impartial bodies, such as governments to make sure there are regulations that these businesses must adhere to and on this matter, there is still a lot of progress that can be made.
Internet usage development
The number of internet users in Germany has been growing annually. In 1997, around 4.1 million people used the internet at least occasionally and in 2022 this number was 67 million. This is due to the increase in accessibility and the fact that now there is now an expectation the internet will be used for certain tasks, for example, buying concert tickets, booking flights for a holdiay, or even online banking.Not only has the number of people who use the internet risen but so has the frequency with which they use it. A rising number of German internet users go online several times a day. This is likely due to the ease with which one can access the internet and the convenience it offers. In Germany over 90 percent of households now have internet access compared to just over 60 percent in 2006.
Social media and the internet
One of the most popular internet uses is social media which enables people from all over the world to connect in a way that was not previously possible. The social media landscape is quite an unregulated one and with internet usage only increasing it is important that users are able to operate safely and companies are held accountable for what happens on their platform. The German population was generally interested in the internet as such and using online services. Social media has become an integral part of the lives of teenagers in Germany with platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok being the most popular. Most people use social media as a way to follow their friends, families, and acquaintances, however some people have made creating content into their job. This new type of career offers much more flexibility than a traditional office job, but it does come with downsides including the hate that people can receive online which can have negative impacts on mental health.Ultimately, access to the internet is only going to grow and become more convenient, and although social media is a fun hobby for many and for some even a profession, it is important to be aware of the potential negative effects. For social media companies the safety of the user is not always their primary concern, therefore it is up to impartial bodies, such as governments to make sure there are regulations that these businesses must adhere to and on this matter, there is still a lot of progress that can be made.
