- VMO2 reports an 8.1% increase in broadband usage for 2024, driven mainly by online gaming and high streaming traffic from Netflix and YouTube.
- Commuting patterns show 48% of workers now go to the office five days a week, reflecting corporate mandates and changing daily routines.
What happened: VMO2 reveals record broadband data usage
VMO2 has reported a record 8.1% increase in broadband data usage for 2024, driven primarily by online gaming, with significant peaks aligning with Call of Duty launches. The first week of December saw notable traffic spikes as six Premier League matches were streamed on Amazon Prime. Netflix dominated streaming traffic, accounting for 32% of all usage, while YouTube emerged as the fastest-growing app on Virgin Media TV. Jeanie York, Chief Technology Officer at Virgin Media O2, highlighted the company’s commitment to investing in connectivity to meet this rising demand. Additionally, O2 Motion data revealed an increase in commuting habits, with 48% of workers heading to the office five days a week, driven by corporate mandates. Interestingly, Brits are also going to bed earlier, with network traffic tapering off from 9:20 PM, and morning activity beginning earlier at 6:20 AM.
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Why this is important
The insights provided by VMO2 reflect significant shifts in consumer behaviour and connectivity trends in the UK, which have broader implications for both the tech industry and societal norms. The rise in broadband usage, particularly associated with online gaming, underscores the growing importance of digital entertainment in daily life. As more people engage with streaming platforms like Netflix and YouTube, content providers must adapt to meet consumer demands, potentially affecting their programming and marketing strategies.
The data on commuting patterns also highlights a post-pandemic shift towards more structured work environments. With 36% of office workers now required to be present daily, companies are re-evaluating workplace dynamics and productivity measures. The trend towards earlier bedtimes and morning activity suggests a societal shift towards more structured daily routines, which could influence everything from entertainment consumption to health and wellness initiatives.
Furthermore, VMO2’s partnership with the Office for National Statistics to provide anonymised mobility data for policy decisions demonstrates the increasing intersection of technology and public policy. This collaboration aims to create data-driven insights to inform decisions on public health and regional growth, illustrating how network data can play a crucial role in addressing societal challenges. Overall, these findings from VMO2 not only highlight current trends but also set the stage for future developments in technology, work culture, and public policy in the UK.
