Online video takes a bite out of TV
November 27th, 2006 by Lloyd Gofton
According to an ICM survey for the BBC, online video viewing is beginning to reflect negatively on TV viewing habits.
To be precise, the survey confirms 43% of Britons who watch online video (via internet or mobile devices) at least once a week, watch less traditional TV as a result.
The survey also points out that online and mobile viewing is on the increase with 75% of users saying they now watched more than they did a year ago.
Makes sense so far…
However, these viewers are stuck in the minority, with just 9% of the sample saying they view online video regularly.
- 13% said they watched occasionally
- 10% expect to start within a year
- Two-thirds did not watch online and did not expect to start doing so over the next 12 months
This trend is linked to age, confirming online video remains most popular with younger age groups.
On the face of it the lack of take up is disappointing, but the figures are sure to change as traditional TV pushes more content online, which will in turn push the traditional viewer online.
I expect to see online video increase in popularity regardless of age, just as the popularity of social networking has crossed the age divide.
