Past 12 months saw increase in broadband Internet
A new research study carried out by the Pew Research Center's Internet & American Life Project indicates that broadband adoption has increased over the past year even with a struggling economy.
The group surveyed 2,253 Americans in April, asking about broadband adoption, usage, etc.
"Broadband adoption appears to have been largely immune to the effects of the current economic recession," according to the report. "In the April survey, more than twice as many respondents said they had cut back or canceled a cell phone plan or cable TV service than said the same about their Internet service."
Around 63 percent of U.S. consumers now have broadband Internet service, which is up from the 55 percent figure from one year ago. Along with more people adopting broadband, the price of service has also increased, with an average price of $39 per month in April 2009 -- the average was $34.50 last May.
The economy has forced many families to eliminate extra services that may not be necessary, helping reduce monthly bills. As noted earlier, the study also found that consumers are twice as likely to eliminate cable TV or cell phone service instead of home Internet. Just nine percent of Internet users cut their service over the past year, while 22 percent have canceled cell phone subscriptions and cable contracts.
The reason for keeping the internet given by most people surveyed was that they found it to be a vital information finding resource, while cable TV subscription was more of a luxury.
Internet use also increased among people over 65 and low-income Americans, with a 58 percent increase in elderly Internet use, and 40 percent increase of Americans who make $20,000 or less.
The current global economy and rising Internet prices haven't, and aren't expected to, stop users from continuing this trend throughout the rest of 2009 and into 2010.
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