Global Internet Users in 2025
The digital landscape has reached a historic milestone as we move through 2025, with more than 6 billion people now connected to the internet across the globe. This remarkable achievement represents 73.2% of the world’s total population, marking a significant shift in how humanity communicates, works, and accesses information. The past year alone witnessed 294 million new users joining the digital ecosystem, demonstrating that internet adoption continues its upward trajectory despite having already reached the majority of the global population. From bustling metropolitan centers to remote rural communities, the internet has become an integral part of modern life, though the journey toward universal connectivity still faces considerable challenges.
The story behind these numbers reveals fascinating disparities and trends that define our connected world. While developed nations enjoy near-universal access with lightning-fast speeds, billions in developing regions still struggle with basic connectivity or remain entirely offline. The digital divide persists not just between countries, but within them—affecting women more than men, rural populations more than urban dwellers, and economically disadvantaged communities disproportionately. Understanding these statistics provides crucial insights into the state of global connectivity and highlights both the tremendous progress made and the work that remains to bring the remaining 2.21 billion offline individuals into the digital age.
Key Internet Usage Stats & Facts Worldwide 2025
| Key Metric | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Total Internet Users Globally | 6+ billion people |
| Global Internet Penetration Rate | 73.2% |
| New Users in Past 12 Months | 294 million |
| Year-on-Year Growth Rate | 5.1% |
| People Still Offline | 2.21 billion (26.8%) |
| Largest Online Population | China (1.3 billion users) |
| Fastest Growing Market | India (1+ billion users, 70% penetration) |
| Global Mobile Internet Users | 96% of online adults |
| Smartphone Penetration | 93.7% among internet users |
| Average Global Mobile Speed | 90+ Mbps |
| Average Global Fixed Broadband Speed | 104.43 Mbps |
| Most Connected Region | Eastern Asia (24.6% of global users) |
Data Source: DataReportal Digital 2026 Report, Kepios Analysis, ITU, GSMA Intelligence (October 2025)
The numbers paint a compelling picture of our interconnected world. The barrier of 6 billion internet users represents more than just a statistical milestone—it signifies a fundamental transformation in human society where three-quarters of all people can instantly access information, communicate across continents, and participate in the global digital economy. The addition of 294 million new users within a single year, despite already high penetration rates, shows that connectivity continues expanding into previously underserved markets. This 5.1% year-on-year growth rate may seem modest compared to the explosive early days of internet adoption, but it represents substantial progress when applied to such a massive base population.
What makes these figures particularly noteworthy is the concentration of users in specific regions. China and India alone account for over 2 billion internet users—more than one-third of the global total. The fact that 96% of online adults access the internet through mobile devices underscores the critical role smartphones have played in democratizing internet access, particularly in regions where traditional fixed infrastructure remains limited. Meanwhile, connection speeds have improved dramatically, with mobile internet speeds jumping over 60% in just one year, enabling richer, more data-intensive online experiences for billions of users worldwide.
Global Internet Adoption Growth 2025
| Growth Metric | Value | Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| New Internet Users | 294 million | Past 12 months |
| Year-on-Year Growth Rate | 5.1% | Annual |
| Total Users Reached | 6+ billion | October 2025 |
| Global Penetration Increase | From 68.7% to 73.2% | Since July 2025 report |
| Penetration Gain | 4.5 percentage points | Recent months (includes data revisions) |
| Users Added Daily | ~805,000 | Average calculation |
| Remaining Offline Population | 2.21 billion | Still to connect |
Data Source: DataReportal Digital 2026 Report, Kepios Analysis (October 2025)
Internet adoption growth in 2025 continues at a robust pace despite having already reached three-quarters of humanity. The addition of 294 million new users over the past 12 months represents 5.1% year-on-year growth—a rate that might seem modest in percentage terms but translates to enormous absolute numbers. To put this in perspective, roughly 805,000 people came online every single day over the past year, equivalent to connecting a city the size of Amsterdam or Seattle daily. The milestone of surpassing 6 billion total internet users represents a historic achievement that seemed distant just a decade ago when global penetration barely exceeded 40%.
However, it’s important to note that the apparent jump from 68.7% penetration in July 2025 to 73.2% in October 2025 doesn’t represent hundreds of millions of people suddenly coming online in 90 days. Instead, this 4.5 percentage point increase largely reflects significant revisions to official statistics from India and China, where government surveys and reporting methodologies produced updated figures that more accurately capture existing internet usage. India’s National Statistics Office revised the country’s penetration rate upward by more than 10 percentage points, while China’s CNNIC report similarly adjusted figures based on more comprehensive measurement. These revisions underscore the challenges of accurately measuring internet adoption globally, particularly in countries where informal internet access through shared devices, public WiFi, and internet cafes may not be captured by traditional household surveys. Regardless of the measurement complexities, the fundamental reality remains: more than 6 billion people now participate in the global internet, while 2.21 billion still await connection.
Internet Penetration by Region 2025
| Region | Internet Penetration Rate | Key Statistics |
|---|---|---|
| Eastern Asia | 91.6% (China) | 24.6% of global internet users, 1.3 billion users in China alone |
| Southern Asia | 70% (India) | 1+ billion users in India, 440+ million still offline |
| Gulf Cooperation Council | 85-95% | UAE leads mobile speeds at 614.42 Mbps |
| Sub-Saharan Africa | 36% | Only 1 in 3 people online, majority of offline population |
| Urban Centers (Global) | 86.5% | 69.1% of total internet population lives in cities |
| Rural Areas (Global) | 54.5% | Significantly underconnected despite 41.6% of population |
| North Korea | <1% | Least connected nation due to government restrictions |
| Central Africa | 12-15% | Burundi (11%), CAR (12%), Chad (13.2%) |
Data Source: DataReportal Digital 2026 Report, ITU, National Statistics Offices (October 2025)
Regional disparities in internet penetration worldwide reveal the complex nature of global connectivity. Eastern Asia stands as the most connected region, driven primarily by China’s impressive 91.6% penetration rate and India’s recent surge to 70% penetration. Together, these two nations demonstrate how rapidly developing economies can achieve mass internet adoption when infrastructure investment aligns with policy priorities. The Gulf Cooperation Council states show what’s possible in wealthy, technologically advanced nations, where connectivity approaches universality and users enjoy some of the fastest mobile internet speeds on the planet, with the UAE achieving median download speeds of 614.42 Mbps.
The situation looks starkly different across Sub-Saharan Africa, where only 36% of the population has internet access. This region exemplifies the challenges facing developing nations: inadequate infrastructure, high costs relative to income, limited electricity access, and geographic obstacles to deployment. Countries like Burundi (11% penetration) and the Central African Republic (12% penetration) struggle with connectivity rates that haven’t yet reached even one in seven residents. The urban-rural divide further complicates the picture globally, with urban areas achieving 86.5% penetration while rural communities languish at 54.5%. This gap exists even in developed nations, though it’s most pronounced in developing regions where rural populations often lack not just internet access but basic infrastructure like reliable electricity and paved roads.
Major Country Internet Statistics 2025
| Country | Total Users | Penetration Rate | Users Still Offline | Notable Data |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| China | 1.3 billion | 91.6% | 120 million | 21.5% of global internet users |
| India | 1+ billion | 70% | 440+ million | Largest offline population, 86.3% household connectivity |
| United States | Data varies | 85-95% | N/A | Advanced infrastructure |
| Pakistan | Data varies | Low | 140 million | 2nd largest offline population |
| Nigeria | Data varies | Low | 130 million | 3rd largest offline population |
| Ethiopia | Low | <25% | 100+ million | 75%+ rural population, limited electricity |
| North Korea | Minimal | <1% | 25+ million | Government-imposed restrictions |
| Venezuela | Moderate | 60%+ | N/A | 23.7% rely on free WiFi only |
Data Source: DataReportal Digital 2026 Report, CNNIC, India NSO, ITU (October 2025)
The country-level internet statistics for 2025 reveal dramatic differences in digital development. China’s achievement of 1.3 billion internet users at 91.6% penetration represents one of the most successful large-scale digital transformations in history. Despite its massive population, China has managed to connect more than 9 in 10 citizens, accounting for 21.5% of all internet users worldwide. This means that more than 1 in 5 people who access the internet globally are located in China. The country’s success stems from decades of infrastructure investment, widespread mobile adoption, and government initiatives promoting digital connectivity.
India’s breakthrough to 1 billion internet users marks another pivotal moment, though the country’s 70% penetration rate leaves 440+ million people still offline—the largest offline population of any nation. The positive indicator here is that 86.3% of Indian households now have some form of internet connection, suggesting that access exists even if individual usage varies by age and circumstance. On the opposite end of the spectrum, Pakistan (140 million offline), Nigeria (130 million offline), and Ethiopia (100+ million offline) struggle with infrastructure challenges that keep massive populations disconnected. North Korea remains an extreme outlier with less than 1% penetration, where government restrictions prevent citizens from accessing the global internet, instead limiting them to a heavily monitored domestic intranet.
Digital Gender Gap Statistics 2025
| Gender | Internet Penetration | Social Media Representation | Gap Analysis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Men | 75.7% | 54.4% of users | 240 million more men online |
| Women | 70.7% | 45.6% of users | Underrepresented by 5 percentage points |
| Relative Likelihood | Men 7% more likely | Men 10x overrepresented vs population | 500 million more males on social media |
| Population Balance | Men 50.3% | Population gap only 43 million | Digital gap 5x larger than population gap |
| Computer Usage | Men 9% more likely | N/A | Significant device access disparity |
Data Source: DataReportal Digital 2026 Report, Kepios Analysis, UN World Population Prospects (October 2025)
The digital gender gap remains one of the most persistent challenges in achieving truly universal internet access. While 70.7% of women worldwide now use the internet, this figure trails the 75.7% of men who are online, creating a 5 percentage point gap that translates to 240 million more men than women having internet access. What makes this disparity particularly concerning is that the global population itself is nearly balanced, with women comprising 49.7% and men 50.3% of all people—a difference of just 43 million individuals. This means the digital gender gap is more than five times larger than the gender gap in the overall population.
The inequality extends beyond basic internet access into specific platforms and devices. Social media platforms show an even more pronounced imbalance, with 54.4% of users identifying as male compared to just 45.6% female. This results in almost 500 million more male social media users than female users—10 times more than would be expected based on population distribution alone. Some of this gap may be attributed to higher rates of fake or duplicate male accounts, but even accounting for this factor, women remain significantly underrepresented. The disparity persists across device types as well, with men being 9% more likely to use computers for internet access. These statistics highlight how social, economic, and cultural barriers continue limiting women’s digital participation, affecting their access to information, economic opportunities, and online communities.
Internet Speed and Quality Statistics 2025
| Connection Type | Global Median Speed | Year-on-Year Growth | Fastest Country | Slowest Country |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile (Cellular) Data | 90+ Mbps | 60%+ increase | UAE (614.42 Mbps) | Bolivia (<20 Mbps) |
| Fixed Broadband | 104.43 Mbps | 11%+ increase | Singapore (394.30 Mbps) | Syria (3.35 Mbps) |
| Mobile 200+ Mbps Club | 6 countries | N/A | Brazil, S. Korea, Bahrain, Bulgaria | N/A |
| Fixed 300+ Mbps Club | 6 countries | N/A | Top 10 all exceed 250 Mbps | N/A |
| Sub-20 Mbps Mobile | 3+ countries | N/A | Belarus, Eswatini under 20 | N/A |
| Sub-10 Mbps Fixed | 4+ countries | N/A | 18 countries under 20 Mbps | N/A |
Data Source: Ookla Speedtest Global Index (August 2025)
Internet speed statistics for 2025 demonstrate remarkable progress alongside persistent inequality. The global median mobile internet speed has reached 90+ Mbps, representing a staggering increase of more than 60% in just one year—a rate of improvement five times faster than what we’re seeing with fixed broadband connections. This acceleration in mobile speeds is transforming what’s possible on smartphones, with these speeds theoretically sufficient to stream six simultaneous 4K movies according to some estimates, though four concurrent 4K streams may be more realistic in practice. This rapid improvement in mobile connectivity is particularly significant for developing nations where mobile infrastructure often leapfrogs traditional fixed-line deployment.
Fixed broadband speeds continue to edge higher as well, with the global median reaching 104.43 Mbps, representing 11% year-on-year growth and 26% growth over two years. However, the geographic disparities in connection quality are dramatic. Users in the United Arab Emirates enjoy median mobile download speeds of 614.42 Mbps, while Singapore leads fixed broadband at 394.30 Mbps. Compare this to Syria, where fixed internet speeds average just 3.35 Mbps, or Cuba at 3.48 Mbps, and the inequality becomes stark—Singapore’s connections are more than 100 times faster than Syria’s. At least 18 countries struggle with fixed broadband speeds below 20 Mbps, and three countries can’t achieve 20 Mbps on mobile either. These speed disparities don’t just affect entertainment; they determine whether populations can participate in modern remote work, access educational resources, or utilize cloud-based services that increasingly define the digital economy.
Device Usage and Access Statistics 2025
| Device Type | Usage Rate | Trend | Key Demographics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile Phones (Any) | 96% of online adults | Dominant | Near-universal access |
| Smartphones | 93.7% | Growing | 52.2% of feature phone users are 16-34 |
| Feature Phones | 4.5% | Declining | 1.2% use exclusively |
| Laptop/Desktop Computers | 59.6% | Declining (-5% in 2 years) | 56% among 16-24 age group |
| Tablet Devices | Low single digits | Stable | Minimal web traffic share |
| Smart Watches | 27.8% ownership | Growing (+7.3% YoY) | Popular ages 25-44 |
| Smart Wristbands | 13.6% ownership | Growing | 25%+ in China |
| Connected TVs | 31.6% active usage | Stable | 49.3% overall ownership |
Data Source: GWI Q2 2025 Survey, Statcounter (August 2025)
The evolution of device usage patterns in 2025 reflects the mobile-first reality of modern internet access. With 96% of online adults using mobile phones for at least some of their internet activities, mobile devices have become virtually synonymous with internet access for most of humanity. The dominance of smartphones at 93.7% adoption among internet users shows how these pocket-sized computers have become the primary gateway to the digital world. Interestingly, feature phones haven’t completely disappeared, with 4.5% of connected adults still using them for some online activities, though only 1.2% rely exclusively on feature phones. The demographic data reveals that younger users aged 16-34 account for 52.2% of feature phone internet users, often in developing markets where they serve as a backup device.
Computer usage continues its steady decline, with only 59.6% of internet users now accessing the web via laptop or desktop devices, down from 62.9% just two years ago—a relative decline of more than 5%. This shift is most pronounced among younger generations, where just 56% of 16-24 year-olds use computers for internet access, compared to much higher rates among older demographics. The web traffic data corroborates this trend, with mobile devices accounting for 59.14% of all web page requests in August 2025, while laptops and desktops captured 39.28%, and tablets barely registered at 1.55%. Wearable technology is emerging as the next frontier, with 27.8% of online adults now owning smart watches (up 7.3% year-on-year) and 13.6% owning smart wristbands. Connected TV usage has stabilized at 31.6% active usage, with 49.3% of internet users owning smart TVs, though actual usage varies significantly by age, with older generations more likely to own and use these devices than younger cohorts who grew up with mobile-first viewing habits.
Internet Affordability and Access Costs 2025
| Country/Region | Cost as % of Income | Penetration Rate | Access Challenge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central African Republic | 26.7% (mobile data) | 12% | Most expensive relative to income |
| Venezuela | 20%+ (mobile data) | 60%+ | 23.7% rely on free WiFi only |
| Developed Nations Average | <2% | 85-95% | Affordable for most residents |
| Sub-Saharan Africa Average | 10-25% | 36% | Prohibitively expensive |
| Global Affordable Threshold | <2% (ITU standard) | N/A | Many countries exceed this |
Data Source: ITU ICT Prices Analysis, World Bank, DataReportal (October 2025)
Internet affordability remains a critical barrier preventing billions from accessing online services. The International Telecommunication Union’s analysis reveals that in the Central African Republic, the cheapest non-promotional cellular data plan costs 26.7% of typical monthly income—more than one-quarter of what residents earn. This astronomical cost relative to purchasing power helps explain why the country’s penetration rate sits at just 12%. Even when people technically have access to internet infrastructure, they simply cannot afford to use it regularly. Venezuela presents another case study, where mobile data packages consume more than 20% of monthly income, forcing 23.7% of the country’s internet users to rely exclusively on free public WiFi to get online.
The ITU recommends that internet access should cost no more than 2% of monthly income to be considered truly affordable, yet numerous countries—particularly across Sub-Saharan Africa—see costs ranging from 10% to 25% of typical incomes. This pricing barrier creates a vicious cycle: low adoption rates mean providers can’t achieve economies of scale, keeping prices high, which in turn suppresses adoption further. The stark contrast with developed nations, where internet costs typically fall below 2% of income, illustrates how economic inequality translates directly into digital inequality. These affordability challenges often compound other infrastructural issues—many of the same regions with expensive internet also struggle with limited electricity access, poor road networks, and other development challenges that make it difficult and costly to deploy and maintain digital infrastructure.
Smart Watch and Wearable Technology Statistics 2025
| Device Category | Global Ownership | Top Markets | Lowest Markets |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smart Watches | 27.8% | Croatia (~40%), UAE (38%+), Norway (38%+) | Kenya (<10%), Japan (11.6%) |
| Smart Wristbands (Fitness Trackers) | 13.6% | China (25%+), Spain (18%+), Poland (18%+) | Southeast Asia (<10%), S. Korea, Japan |
| All Smart Wrist Devices | 33.0% | Growing steadily | 31.6% one year ago |
| Age 25-44 (Peak Adoption) | Highest rates | Women slightly more likely | Core demographic |
| Age 65+ (Senior Adoption) | 16.7% (1 in 6) | Lower adoption | Untapped health monitoring market |
Data Source: GWI Q2 2025 Survey (October 2025)
The rise of wearable technology in 2025 represents an emerging frontier in internet connectivity and personal computing. Smart watch ownership has climbed to 27.8% of online adults globally, marking 7.3% year-on-year growth and establishing these wrist-worn devices as mainstream technology rather than niche gadgets. When combined with smart wristbands at 13.6% ownership, fully one-third of internet users (33.0%) now own some form of smart wrist device, up from 31.6% just one year ago. These devices serve as constant companions, tracking health metrics, delivering notifications, enabling contactless payments, and increasingly functioning as standalone internet access points.
Geographic adoption patterns reveal interesting cultural and economic variations. Croatia leads globally with approximately 40% of online adults owning smart watches, while Gulf states like the UAE (38%+) and European nations like Norway (38%+) show similarly high adoption. Conversely, Kenya sees ownership below 10%, and surprisingly, tech-forward Japan registers just 11.6% adoption, suggesting that cultural preferences and market dynamics play complex roles beyond pure economic capability. The demographic profile shows ages 25-44 as the sweet spot, with women in this range slightly more likely to own smart watches than men. However, the technology industry may be missing a significant opportunity with seniors aged 65+, where ownership languishes at roughly 16.7% (1 in 6). Given these devices’ extensive health monitoring capabilities—tracking heart rate, detecting falls, monitoring sleep patterns, and even performing basic ECG functions—the relatively low adoption among older users who could benefit most from these features suggests substantial room for growth in this demographic.
Connected TV and Large Screen Statistics 2025
| Metric | Percentage | Key Insight |
|---|---|---|
| Smart TV Ownership | 49.3% of internet users | Nearly half own connected televisions |
| Active CTV Usage (30 days) | 31.6% | Regular content streaming on TVs |
| Retirees (Highest Ownership) | 55.1% | Older demographics embrace large screens |
| Ages 16-24 (Lowest Ownership) | 39.6% | Living situations limit ownership |
| Ages 35-44 (Most Active Users) | Highest usage rate | Peak demographic for CTV engagement |
| Tablet Usage Comparison | <2% web traffic | CTVs significantly more popular than tablets |
Data Source: GWI Q2 2025 Survey, Statcounter (October 2025)
Connected television adoption illustrates how internet access extends beyond personal devices to transform home entertainment. Smart TV ownership has reached 49.3% of internet users, meaning nearly half of all people online now own a television capable of directly accessing internet content without additional devices like streaming sticks or set-top boxes. However, ownership doesn’t always translate to active use—31.6% of online adults report actually using their connected TV to access digital content in the past 30 days. This gap between ownership and usage suggests that some smart TV owners continue using their sets primarily for traditional broadcast or cable content, or access streaming services through external devices they’re more familiar with.
The demographic patterns reveal interesting generational differences in how people relate to large-screen internet access. Retirees show the highest ownership rate at 55.1%, suggesting older adults value the comfort and visibility of large screens for their digital content consumption. By contrast, younger adults aged 16-24 show just 39.6% ownership, likely because this age group frequently lives in shared housing, dorm rooms, or other arrangements where owning large appliances isn’t practical. Interestingly, while retirees own the most smart TVs, adults aged 35-44 show the highest rates of active CTV usage, representing the demographic sweet spot where financial stability enables ownership and digital fluency drives adoption of streaming services and internet content. The fact that CTV usage at 31.6% now significantly exceeds tablet web traffic at 1.55% demonstrates how internet consumption has evolved—users either want the large, shared experience of a TV or the personal convenience of a smartphone, with tablets falling into an awkward middle ground that appeals to increasingly fewer users.
Rural vs Urban Digital Divide 2025
| Location Type | Internet Penetration | Population Share | Share of Internet Users |
|---|---|---|---|
| Urban Centers | 86.5% | 58.4% of global population | 69.1% of internet users |
| Rural Areas | 54.5% | 41.6% of global population | 30.9% of internet users |
| Gap Size | 32 percentage points | N/A | Massive infrastructure disparity |
| Ethiopia Rural Example | <25% estimated | 75%+ of population | Limited electricity compounds issues |
| Developed Nations Rural | 65-75% estimated | Varies | Gap exists even in wealthy countries |
Data Source: DataReportal Digital 2026 Report, UN Population Data, World Bank (October 2025)
The urban-rural digital divide represents one of the most fundamental inequalities in global internet access. While urban areas achieve 86.5% internet penetration, rural communities lag dramatically at just 54.5%—a gap of 32 percentage points that affects hundreds of millions of people worldwide. This disparity is particularly striking when considering population distribution: rural areas house 41.6% of the global population but account for only 30.9% of internet users. Conversely, urban centers with 58.4% of the population contain 69.1% of all internet users, demonstrating how cities concentrate digital connectivity far beyond their share of humanity.
The roots of this divide extend beyond telecommunications infrastructure to encompass broader development challenges. In Ethiopia, where more than 75% of the 136 million residents live in rural areas, barely half the population has access to electricity and basic drinking water services—challenges particularly acute in rural regions. Without reliable electricity, maintaining internet infrastructure becomes exponentially more difficult and expensive, creating a cascade of barriers to connectivity. The situation isn’t unique to developing nations either; even wealthy countries see meaningful gaps between rural and urban internet access, though the differential is smaller. Rural communities worldwide face higher costs for inferior service because the economics of infrastructure deployment favor dense urban areas where providers can serve more customers per mile of cable or per cell tower. This digital divide has profound implications for economic opportunity, education access, healthcare delivery, and social inclusion, effectively creating two-tier societies where rural residents operate at a systematic disadvantage in an increasingly digital world.
Mobile Internet Dominance Statistics 2025
| Mobile Metric | Statistic | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Mobile Web Traffic Share | 59.14% | Majority of all web page requests |
| Desktop Web Traffic Share | 39.28% | Declining steadily |
| Tablet Web Traffic Share | 1.55% | Minimal and shrinking |
| Smartphone Ownership | 93.7% of internet users | Near-universal among connected populations |
| Mobile-Only Internet Users | Majority in developing markets | Primary or sole access method |
| Mobile Speed Growth | 60%+ year-on-year | Fastest infrastructure improvement |
| Apps vs Mobile Web | 90%+ of mobile time in apps | Web traffic understates mobile dominance |
Data Source: Statcounter, GWI Q2 2025, Ookla (August-October 2025)
Mobile internet dominance has fundamentally reshaped how humanity accesses the digital world. Mobile devices now account for 59.14% of all web page requests, officially commanding the majority of web traffic and relegating traditional computers to 39.28% of activity. Tablets have become essentially irrelevant at just 1.55% of web traffic, caught in an uncomfortable middle ground between the convenience of phones and the productivity of computers. However, these figures actually understate mobile’s true dominance because they only measure web browser activity—more than 90% of time spent on mobile devices happens within apps rather than web browsers, meaning mobile’s total share of internet activity far exceeds these already-dominant numbers.
The smartphone ownership rate of 93.7% among internet users reveals how these devices have become virtually synonymous with internet access itself. In developing markets particularly, smartphones often serve as the primary or sole method of getting online, with many users never bothering with computers at all. This mobile-first reality has profound implications for how digital services must be designed, how education gets delivered, and how businesses reach customers. The 60%+ year-on-year increase in mobile internet speeds is making mobile experiences increasingly rich and capable, eliminating many of the traditional advantages that desktop connections once held. As 5G networks continue expanding globally and mobile speeds in countries like the UAE reach 614.42 Mbps, mobile devices can now handle virtually any task that once required a traditional computer, from 4K video streaming to cloud gaming to professional productivity applications.
Offline Population Statistics 2025
| Country | Offline Population | Penetration Rate | Primary Barriers |
|---|---|---|---|
| India | 440+ million | 70% | Scale, rural reach, literacy |
| Pakistan | 140 million | Low | Infrastructure, affordability, cultural |
| Nigeria | 130 million | Low | Infrastructure, electricity, costs |
| China | 120 million | 91.6% | Rural populations, elderly, costs |
| Ethiopia | 100+ million | <25% | Electricity, rural (75%+), infrastructure |
| Global Total | 2.21 billion | 73.2% penetration | Complex, varies by region |
| Sub-Saharan Africa | Majority of regional pop | 36% | Most challenging connectivity environment |
Data Source: DataReportal Digital 2026 Report, ITU, National Statistics (October 2025)
Despite remarkable progress in global connectivity, 2.21 billion people remain offline in 2025—more than one in four humans still lack internet access. India accounts for the largest offline population at 440+ million people, a figure that exceeds the entire population of the United States and Canada combined. This massive offline population exists despite India’s recent surge to 70% internet penetration and represents the challenge of connecting the final quarter of any large population, particularly when that segment tends to be rural, economically disadvantaged, or elderly. Pakistan follows with 140 million offline, Nigeria with 130 million, and even highly connected China still has 120 million people who haven’t come online despite the country’s 91.6% penetration rate.
The geographic concentration of offline populations reveals systematic patterns. Sub-Saharan Africa contains the majority of the world’s least connected populations, with entire nations struggling to bring even half their citizens online. Ethiopia’s 100+ million offline population is compounded by the fact that more than 75% of the country lives in rural areas where basic infrastructure like electricity and clean water remain scarce. The barriers to connectivity vary by context but often include prohibitive costs, lack of infrastructure, insufficient electricity access, low literacy rates, and in extreme cases like North Korea, deliberate government restrictions. Addressing these 2.21 billion offline individuals requires not just telecommunications investment but holistic development addressing the underlying economic and infrastructural challenges that make connectivity difficult or impossible.
Social Media and Platform Usage 2025
| Platform Metric | Statistics | Gender Breakdown |
|---|---|---|
| Total Social Media Users | 5+ billion globally | 54.4% male, 45.6% female |
| Male Social Media Users | Majority | 500 million more than females |
| Female Social Media Users | Minority | Significantly underrepresented |
| Gender Gap vs Population | 10x larger | Population only 43 million gap |
| Fake/Duplicate Accounts | Higher among males | Inflates gender disparity |
| Ad Reach Data | Binary genders only | Non-binary data unavailable |
Data Source: Kepios Analysis, Platform Ad Reach Data (October 2025)
Social media usage patterns in 2025 reflect and amplify the broader digital gender divide observed in overall internet access. More than 5 billion people worldwide now use social media platforms, but the gender distribution skews heavily male at 54.4% compared to 45.6% female. This creates an imbalance of almost 500 million more male users than female users—a disparity ten times larger than what we’d expect based on global population demographics where men outnumber women by only 43 million people. The outsized gap suggests that women face additional barriers to social media participation beyond basic internet access.
Several factors contribute to this social media gender gap. Research indicates that fake and duplicate accounts are significantly more likely to identify as male, which artificially inflates male user counts and may account for some portion of the disparity. However, even accounting for this data artifact, women remain meaningfully underrepresented on social platforms. Cultural factors in many regions discourage or prohibit women’s participation in public online spaces. Safety concerns including harassment and abuse disproportionately affect women and may cause some to avoid social platforms or limit their participation. Economic factors that limit women’s device ownership and data affordability also restrict social media access. The available data only captures binary gender categories, meaning the experiences and representation of non-binary and gender-diverse individuals remain invisible in these statistics, representing another gap in our understanding of who participates in digital spaces.
Youth and Senior Internet Adoption 2025
| Age Group | Internet Penetration | Device Preferences | Usage Patterns |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ages 16-24 | Highest overall | Mobile-first, 56% use computers | Feature phone usage 52.2% of that market |
| Ages 25-34 | Very high | Balanced mobile/computer | Peak smart watch adoption |
| Ages 35-44 | High | Mixed devices | Highest CTV active usage |
| Ages 45-54 | Moderate-high | Computer preference stronger | Growing wearable adoption |
| Ages 55-64 | Moderate | Traditional devices | Lower mobile-only rates |
| Ages 65+ | Lower | 55.1% smart TV ownership | Only 16.7% smart watch adoption |
| Under 15 | Growing | Family device access | Significant YouTube consumption |
Data Source: GWI Q2 2025 Survey, Multiple Sources (October 2025)
Age-based digital divides reveal how internet adoption and usage evolve across generations. Younger users aged 16-24 show the highest internet penetration rates and are most comfortable with mobile-first experiences, yet interestingly only 56% use computers for internet access compared to higher rates among older age groups. This youngest adult cohort demonstrates entirely different technology relationships than their parents, having grown up immersed in smartphones and social media from early adolescence. Paradoxically, young people also account for 52.2% of those still using feature phones for internet access, typically in developing markets where these devices serve as affordable entry points to connectivity.
Senior citizens aged 65 and above present a contrasting digital profile. While 55.1% own smart TVs—the highest rate of any age group—they lag significantly in other technology adoption metrics. Only 16.7% (roughly 1 in 6) own smart watches despite these devices’ health monitoring capabilities that could particularly benefit older adults tracking chronic conditions, detecting falls, or monitoring heart irregularities. The technology industry’s focus on younger demographics may be missing substantial opportunities to serve aging populations whose needs align well with existing technological capabilities. Meanwhile, children under 15 increasingly access the internet through family devices even if they don’t own personal smartphones, as evidenced by the continuing popularity of children’s content on platforms like YouTube where nursery rhymes dominate all-time viewing records.
Top Internet Speed Countries 2025
| Ranking | Country | Mobile Speed (Mbps) | Fixed Broadband Speed (Mbps) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | UAE | 614.42 | High |
| 2 | Qatar | 511.35 | High |
| 3 | Kuwait | 414.56 | High |
| 1 (Fixed) | Singapore | High | 394.30 |
| Mobile 200+ Club | Brazil, South Korea, Bahrain, Bulgaria | 200+ | Varies |
| Fixed 300+ Club | Six countries total | Varies | 300+ |
| Slowest Mobile | Bolivia, Belarus, Eswatini | <20 | Varies |
| Slowest Fixed | Syria, Cuba | Varies | 3.35-3.48 |
Data Source: Ookla Speedtest Global Index (August 2025)
The fastest internet speeds in 2025 are concentrated in wealthy nations with advanced infrastructure and smaller geographic areas that make comprehensive coverage more achievable. The United Arab Emirates dominates mobile internet speeds at 614.42 Mbps, a speed so fast it could theoretically handle six simultaneous 4K video streams. Fellow Gulf Cooperation Council nations Qatar (511.35 Mbps) and Kuwait (414.56 Mbps) round out the top three, demonstrating how oil-rich states have leveraged their wealth to build world-class telecommunications networks. An elite group of six countries including Brazil, South Korea, Bahrain, and Bulgaria have crossed the 200 Mbps threshold for mobile speeds, providing their citizens with connectivity that was unimaginable just a few years ago.
Singapore leads the world in fixed broadband speeds at 394.30 Mbps, showcasing the city-state’s commitment to digital infrastructure as a competitive advantage. Six nations now exceed 300 Mbps for fixed connections, while the top 10 all surpass 250 Mbps. The contrast with the world’s slowest connections is stark and sobering. Syria’s fixed broadband crawls at just 3.35 Mbps, while Cuba manages only 3.48 Mbps—speeds that are more than 100 times slower than Singapore’s. Bolivia, Belarus, and Eswatini struggle with mobile speeds below 20 Mbps, while Pakistan and Syria can’t break 25 Mbps on cellular networks. At least 18 countries endure fixed broadband speeds below 20 Mbps, and four can’t reach even 10 Mbps. These speed disparities don’t just affect entertainment—they determine whether populations can access modern cloud services, participate in video conferencing, or utilize bandwidth-intensive educational and professional tools.
Web Traffic Device Share 2025
| Device Type | Traffic Share (August 2025) | Trend vs Previous Year | Usage Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile Devices | 59.14% | Relatively stable with fluctuations | Majority of web requests |
| Desktop/Laptop | 39.28% | Declining gradually | Professional and productivity tasks |
| Tablet | 1.55% | Minimal and shrinking | Nearly irrelevant for web traffic |
| Mobile Apps | 90%+ of mobile time | Dominant | Not captured in web traffic stats |
| Desktop vs Mobile Gap | 19.86 percentage points | Mobile lead growing | Reflects mobile-first reality |
Data Source: Statcounter (August 2025)
Web traffic distribution in 2025 definitively confirms mobile’s dominance in how people access the internet. Mobile devices account for 59.14% of all web page requests, officially commanding the majority of browser-based internet activity worldwide. Desktop and laptop computers have been relegated to 39.28% of web traffic, a figure that continues declining as mobile capabilities improve and user habits shift. Perhaps most tellingly, tablets capture a mere 1.55% of web traffic, having failed to find a sustainable position between the convenience of smartphones and the productivity of traditional computers. The nearly 20-percentage-point gap between mobile and desktop traffic represents a complete reversal from just a decade ago when desktop browsing dominated.
These figures actually understate mobile’s true dominance in significant ways. The statistics measure only web browser activity, but more than 90% of time spent on mobile devices occurs within apps rather than web browsers. Social media, messaging, video streaming, gaming, and countless other activities happen in dedicated applications that don’t generate “web traffic” in the traditional sense. When accounting for total internet activity including apps, mobile’s share of overall internet usage likely exceeds 80-85% globally. The monthly fluctuations in traffic share—with August 2025’s mobile percentage actually 4.8% lower than August 2024—suggest complex seasonal patterns and regional variations that researchers don’t fully understand. Despite these month-to-month variations, the long-term trend unmistakably points toward an increasingly mobile-dominated internet where traditional computers serve specialized roles rather than acting as the primary gateway to the digital world.
Computer Usage Decline Statistics 2025
| Computer Metric | Q2 2025 | Q2 2023 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Computer Usage | 59.6% of internet users | 62.9% | -3.3 percentage points |
| Relative Decline | N/A | N/A | -5% over 2 years |
| Ages 16-24 Usage | 56% | Higher previously | Lowest demographic |
| Retiree Usage | Highest rate | N/A | Generational preference |
| Male vs Female Usage | Men 9% more likely | N/A | Gender disparity |
| Desktop/Laptop Web Traffic | 39.28% | Higher previously | Continuing decline |
Data Source: GWI Q2 2025 Survey, Statcounter (October 2025)
The steady decline in computer usage represents one of the most significant shifts in internet access patterns over recent years. Just 59.6% of internet users now access the web via laptop or desktop computers as of Q2 2025, down from 62.9% in Q2 2023—a drop of 3.3 percentage points in absolute terms or more than 5% in relative terms. This decline accelerates among younger demographics, with only 56% of users aged 16-24 using computers for internet access, the lowest rate of any age group. These digital natives, who grew up with smartphones as their primary computing devices, see little need for traditional computers in their daily lives, handling everything from social media to content creation to even academic work on mobile devices.
Generational and gender patterns further illuminate the computer usage divide. Retirees show the highest computer usage rates of any age group, having learned internet skills in an era when computers were the primary access method and maintaining those habits into later life. Meanwhile, men are approximately 9% more likely than women to use computers for internet access, potentially reflecting differences in job types, technical confidence, or device ownership patterns. The desktop/laptop share of web traffic at 39.28% aligns closely with these usage figures, confirming that computers increasingly serve specialized functions—professional work, content creation, gaming, and detailed research—rather than general internet access. As mobile devices achieve performance parity with many laptops through faster processors, larger screens, and better software, the decline in computer usage will likely continue, potentially stabilizing only when computers find their niche as specialized tools rather than general-purpose internet gateways.
Feature Phone Usage Statistics 2025
| Feature Phone Metric | Percentage | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Feature Phone Users (Any Use) | 4.5% of internet users | Still using for some online activities |
| Exclusive Feature Phone Users | 1.2% of internet users | Only device for internet access |
| Also Use Smartphones | 3.3% of internet users | Use both device types |
| Ages 16-34 Share | 52.2% of feature phone users | Younger users dominate in developing markets |
| Also Use Other Devices | 75% of feature phone users | Multi-device access pattern |
| Smartphone Penetration | 93.7% | Feature phones increasingly rare |
Data Source: GWI Q2 2025 Survey (October 2025)
Feature phone usage persists in 2025 despite smartphones’ overwhelming dominance, revealing pockets of continued relevance for these simpler devices. 4.5% of internet users worldwide still use feature phones for at least some online activities, though only 1.2% rely exclusively on feature phones for internet access. The remaining 3.3% use feature phones alongside smartphones, suggesting these devices serve as backup phones, work-specific devices, or emergency devices when smartphone batteries die. The fact that only 1.2% of internet users exclusively use feature phones underscores how comprehensively smartphones have conquered the mobile internet market at 93.7% penetration among connected adults.
The demographic profile of feature phone internet users reveals surprising patterns. Users aged 16-34 account for 52.2% of the feature phone internet population—a counterintuitive finding since we typically associate younger users with the latest technology. This statistic reflects economic realities in developing markets where young people may use feature phones as affordable entry points to internet connectivity, supplementing them with occasional computer or shared smartphone access. The data shows that roughly 75% of feature phone internet users access the web through at least one additional device type, indicating these devices rarely serve as sole internet gateways in modern usage. Feature phones continue selling in substantial numbers in markets like India, Sub-Saharan Africa, and parts of Southeast Asia where their affordability, durability, and long battery life provide value despite limited internet capabilities.
Future Outlook
The trajectory toward universal internet connectivity continues despite slowing growth rates as markets mature. The jump from 6 billion users represents not an endpoint but a milestone in an ongoing journey. The next billion users will prove the most challenging to connect, concentrated in Sub-Saharan Africa, rural South Asia, and remote regions where infrastructure costs remain prohibitively high and economic conditions make affordability elusive. Satellite internet technologies from providers like Starlink, alongside continued 5G network expansion and emerging 6G development, promise to address some infrastructure gaps, particularly in areas where traditional fiber or cellular deployment proves economically unfeasible. The dramatic 60%+ year-on-year increase in mobile internet speeds suggests that quality improvements will continue alongside reach expansion, potentially enabling transformative applications in telemedicine, remote education, and digital commerce that could justify infrastructure investments even in less densely populated regions. However, technology alone won’t bridge the remaining gaps—addressing the digital gender divide, urban-rural disparities, and affordability challenges requires coordinated policy interventions, innovative business models, and recognition that internet access has become essential infrastructure comparable to electricity and clean water.
The evolution of internet usage patterns points toward an increasingly mobile-dominated, AI-enhanced digital landscape where traditional boundaries between devices blur. The decline in computer usage to just 59.6% of internet users, combined with near-universal smartphone adoption at 93.7%, indicates that mobile will cement its position as the primary internet gateway for most of humanity. Wearable technology adoption at 33% and growing suggests a future where internet connectivity becomes even more integrated into daily life through smart watches, AR glasses, and other body-worn devices that provide constant connectivity without requiring users to pull out phones. The persistent 2.21 billion offline population represents both a challenge and an opportunity—each percentage point increase in global penetration brings millions of new users who will reshape digital culture, create new markets, and demand services designed for their contexts. The narrowing but still significant digital gender gap demands focused attention, as excluding women from full digital participation means losing the perspectives, talents, and economic contributions of half of humanity. As internet speeds continue accelerating and access costs gradually decline in relative terms, the defining question won’t be whether everyone eventually comes online, but rather how quickly we can achieve truly inclusive, equitable digital access that empowers all users regardless of geography, gender, age, or economic status.
Disclaimer: The data research report we present here is based on information found from various sources. We are not liable for any financial loss, errors, or damages of any kind that may result from the use of the information herein. We acknowledge that though we try to report accurately, we cannot verify the absolute facts of everything that has been represented.
