Smartphone Surge, Stronger Surfing: 64% Households Online
In recent years, the use of digital devices such as smartphones and laptops has risen significantly across Bangladesh. Several recent surveys indicate that three out of every four households in the country possess at least one smartphone. Additionally, 64 percent of households are connected to the internet in some form, with women’s participation in digital usage also gradually increasing.
These findings were highlighted in a study conducted by the Power and Participation Research Centre (PPRC). The research report was unveiled on Monday, August 25, at the LGED Auditorium in Agargaon, Dhaka. During the event, Dr. Hossain Zillur Rahman, Executive Chairman of PPRC, discussed various aspects of the research. He stated, “We have made significant progress in smartphone usage. Alongside expensive smartphones, the market also offers many cheaper options. People with limited and lower incomes are purchasing these phones to meet their needs.”
According to the PPRC survey, nearly 74 percent of households in Bangladesh currently own at least one smartphone, while 64 percent are connected to the internet. Among these, 80 percent rely on mobile networks. On an individual basis, nearly 68 percent of the population now uses the internet. Families with larger numbers of young members exhibit higher smartphone usage, underscoring the role of youth as a driving force behind this growth.
The study also reveals that approximately 50 percent of smartphones are used for mobile financial services (MFS). Additionally, 80 percent of users engage with social media platforms such as Facebook and YouTube via their smartphones.
In terms of internet and computer usage, the report notes a 13 percent increase in internet penetration compared to the previous fiscal year, bringing the 2024–25 rate to 54.8 percent. Computer usage now stands at 9.2 percent, with 21.9 percent of urban households and just 3.7 percent of rural households owning a computer. Feature phones remain more prevalent in rural areas, particularly for accessing government social safety allowance schemes. Meanwhile, computers are more widely used for institutional purposes.
The research further highlights that households with more young members show greater reliance on smartphones. Students and youth are increasingly engaged in online classes, research, e-books, and various educational activities. Nearly 50 percent of laptops or computers and 20 percent of smartphones are used for education-related purposes. Moreover, smartphones and laptops are widely utilized for online businesses, freelancing, and paying various service fees.
