Canadians' Use of Video Streaming and Communication Apps Leap Amid Pandemic, Says CTA

TORONTO, May 12, 2020 /CNW/ - Canadians' use of technology at home has leaped by double-digit percentages amid the COVID-19 pandemic –  online video services has the biggest gain, followed by live TV, according to a new study by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA)®. Fifty-three percent are watching streaming video content from services such as Netflix and Disney+ more often now than the previous month, and 46 percent are watching more live TV now than previously.

The survey, conducted between April 17-19, 2020, found 17 percent are using a new streaming service for the first time and 11 percnt are using a new streaming service that offers live TV options such as Crave and YouTube TV. In addition, 43 percent of Canadian households are using video conferencing platforms such as Zoom and FaceTime more often now, while nearly half are using social media apps more often.

"Use of video communication and social media apps has skyrocketed across the world and Canada is no exception," said Lesley Rohrbaugh, director of research, CTA. "As people stay at home, many are willing to try new products and services and tech is enabling them to do so. The current crisis may have long-lasting impacts on Canadians' use of technology, with more than two in five (43 percent) saying they anticipate continued use of these products and services once the COVID-19 outbreak has subsided."

The survey also shows 22 percent of Canadians are using online delivery services for household items more often during the pandemic. Nearly half also say they have either used "contactless delivery" services or plan on using them in the future.

Consumer sentiment about technology showed that:

• 65 percent say at-home technologies have helped them feel less isolated while quarantined at home;
• 62 percent now appreciate how important it is to have up-to-date technology products in their home;
• 61 percent agree the ability to purchase products online has been a huge convenience during the COVID-19 crisis; and
• 58 percent indicate their use of online services has increased greatly as a result of being at home.

The survey was designed and formulated by CTA. The quantitative study was administered to an online sample of 1000 Canadian respondents ages 18+ between April 17 and 19, 2020. The margin of sampling error at 95% confidence for aggregate results is +/- 3%. As is common practice, a combination of quotas and weights were used to ensure the final data reflects the known demographics of the study population in terms of age, gender, region and education.  

SOURCE Consumer Technology Association

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