The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Accessing information and staying connected with others remain the leading reasons adults around the world go online, according to the Digital 2026 Mid-Year Global Update Report, which analysed global internet usage data for April 2026.
The report examined the main reasons internet users aged 16 and above use online platforms, revealing a wide range of activities centred largely on finding information, communication and entertainment.
Searching for information emerged as the most common motivation, with 60.1 percent of global users citing it as a reason for using the internet.
Staying connected with friends and family followed at 57.7 percent, while 53.4 percent said they go online to watch videos, television programmes or movies. Keeping up with current affairs was another major activity, with 51.4 percent using the internet to follow news and events.
The internet also plays an important role in helping users solve everyday problems. About 48.5 percent search online for information on how to carry out different tasks, while 45.4 percent use it to access and listen to music.
Finding fresh ideas and inspiration was cited by 44.7 percent of users. Another 44.1 percent said they browse the internet or use it to pass time, while 43.2 percent research products and brands before making decisions.
Travel and lifestyle-related searches also account for a significant share of internet activity. Some 36.9 percent of users research destinations, holidays and travel, while 35.8 percent use the internet for education and studying.
Financial activities attract 34.5 percent of users, including those looking for information on savings and money management. Health-related searches, including research on health conditions and healthcare products, were cited by 34.2 percent.
Gaming accounts for 29.7 percent of internet usage, while 28.9 percent use digital tools to organise and manage their everyday activities.
