Internet of Things in EU Households: Who is Connecting and How
A recent Eurostat article looks at how individuals across the European Union are using internet-connected devices (IoT).
In 2024, 70% of EU citizens aged 16–74 reported using Internet of Things (IoT) devices—smart technologies such as internet-connected TVs, smart speakers, fitness trackers, or doorbells. While internet-connected TVs were the most widely used device (58%), wearables like smartwatches or fitness trackers were used by 30%, and home audio systems by 19%. Less common were smart home appliances, energy management systems, security devices, health-related IoT devices, and toys.
Usage patterns vary across age groups. The youngest adults (16–24) show the highest adoption of entertainment-related IoT devices, while the 35–44 age group uses more home-related devices.
Country differences are significant: the Netherlands leads with 95% of citizens using IoT devices, while Greece ranks fourth from the last, just above Romania, Bulgaria, and Poland.
The trend towards digital inequality is concerning. Special attention is needed from social justice actors to avoid automation-driven discrimination facilitated by artificial intelligence. While digitalisation can enhance the efficiency of social protection, there is a risk it may instead serve austerity measures.
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