THE INTERNET AND DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY.
During the pandemic outbreak, about two-thirds of Americans say digital technology have been useful, but not a replacement for human interaction.
Over 68% of U.S. adults were asked about the limits on social contact during the pandemic, say that the everyday interactions they normally would have had in person, but instead had online or by smartphone, have generally been just as good as in-persona contact.
A large percentage of U.S. adults who say that since the beginning of the pandemic outbreak in February 2020, each of the following has helped them, personally, to stay connected with their family and friends. #pewresearch.org.
- 44% used text messages or group messaging apps.
- 38% used voice or video calls.
- 20% made use of social media sites.
- 19% made use of sending emails.
Adults with bachelor's, advanced degrees are more likely than others to make daily video calls, use technology in new ways, or consider internet essential amid COVID-19. Over 32% of U.S. adults say they have talked several times a day since the pandemic outbreak.
Around 60% of digital broadband users with lower incomes often have connection problems, and 46% say they sometimes experience problems with the speed, reliability or quality of their high speed internet connection in a way that makes it hard to do the things they need to do online.
