From connecting with loved ones to streaming shows, our digital habits continue to evolve. According to We Are Social’s latest data as of February 2025, internet users aged 16 and above are going online for more reasons than before — marking a rebound to pandemic-era levels of online engagement. Here are top seven reasons why internet users use the internet in 2025.

By CNBCTV18.com October 14, 2025, 6:55:34 PM IST (Published)

2 Min Read

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After a brief decline two years ago, the number of motivations for using the internet has surged again in 2025, according to We Are Social’s latest data as of February 2025. As online experiences become more integrated into daily life, users are finding more reasons — both practical and personal — to stay connected. (Image: Canva)

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1. Finding Information (62.8%) | The top reason people log on remains information-seeking. Whether it’s checking facts, learning new skills, or exploring topics of interest, 62.8% of users go online primarily to find information. (Image: Canva)

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2. Staying in Touch with Friends and Family (60.2%) | Connection continues to be a key driver. Over six in ten internet users say they use the web to keep in touch with loved ones — through messaging apps, video calls, or social media platforms. (Image: Canva)

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3. Keeping Up with News and Events (55.0%) | The internet remains a major source for real-time updates. More than half of users turn to digital platforms to stay informed about current affairs, global happenings, and local news. (Image: Canva)

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4. Watching TV Shows, Videos or Movies (54.7%) | Streaming entertainment is another major motivation. With platforms offering endless choices, 54.7% of users say they go online to watch TV shows, videos, or movies. (Image: Canva)

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5. Researching How to Do Things (51.1%) | From DIY tutorials to cooking tips, over half of internet users search for step-by-step guides and how-to content online to make everyday tasks easier. (Image: Canva)

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6. Finding New Ideas or Inspiration (46.9%) | Nearly 47% of users browse online for creative inspiration — be it for fashion, travel, home décor, or professional projects. (Image: Canva)

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7. Accessing and Listening to Music (46.7%) | Music streaming continues to be a strong digital habit. Almost half of online users listen to their favourite tracks or discover new artists through digital platforms. (Image: Canva)

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