Hybrid models of working are on the rise in the United States according to survey data covering worker habits between 2019 and 2024. In the second quarter of 2024, ** percent of U.S. workers reported working in a hybrid manner. The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic saw a record number of people working remotely to help curb the spread of the virus. Since then, many workers have found a new shape to their home and working lives, finding that a hybrid model of working is more flexible than always being required to work on-site.

In June 2025, approximately 12 percent of workers in Great Britain worked from home exclusively, with a further 26 percent working from home and travelling to work, while 43 percent only travelled to work. During this time period, the share of people only travelling to work was highest in March 2022, at 60 percent of respondents, with the peak for only working from home occurring in June 2020. In general, hybrid working has become steadily more popular than fully remote working, with the highest share of people hybrid working in November 2023, when 31 percent of people advising they were hybrid working. What type of workers are most likely to work from home? In 2020, over half of people working in the agriculture sector mainly worked from home, which was the highest share among UK industry sectors at that time. While this industry was one of the most accessible for mainly working at home, just six percent of workers in the accommodation and food services sector mainly did this, the lowest of any sector. In the same year, men were slightly more likely to mainly work from home than women, while the most common age group for mainly working from home was those aged 75 and over, at 45.4 percent. Over a long-term period, the share of people primarily home working has grown from 11.1 percent in 1998, to approximately 17.4 percent in 2020. Growth of Flexible working in the UK According to a survey conducted in 2023, working from home either on a regular, or ad hoc basis was the most common type of flexible working arrangement offered by organizations in the UK, at 62 percent of respondents. Other popular flexible working arrangements include the ability to work flexible hours, work part-time, or take career breaks. Since 2013, for example, the number of employees in the UK that can work flextime has increased from 3.2 million, to around 4.2 million by 2024. When asked why flexible work was important to them, most UK workers said that it supported a better work-life balance, with 41 percent expressing that it made their commute to work more manageable.

The trend of working remotely has been slowly increasing globally since 2015, with a *** to ***** percent annual increase rate. However, the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 upended the world economy and global markets. Employment trends were no exception to this, with the share of employees working remotely increasing to some ** percent in 2022 from just ** percent two years prior. The industry with the highest share of remote workers globally in 2023 was by far the technology sector, with over ** percent of tech employees worldwide working fully or mostly remotely. How are employers dealing with remote work? Many employers around the world have already adopted some remote work policies. According to IT industry leaders, reasons for remote work adoption ranged from a desire to broaden a company’s talent pool, increase productivity, and reduce costs from office equipment or real estate investments. Nonetheless, employers worldwide grappled with various concerns related to hybrid work. Among tech leaders, leading concerns included enabling effective collaboration and preserving organizational culture in hybrid work environments. Consequently, it’s unsurprising that maintaining organizational culture, fostering collaboration, and real estate investments emerged as key drivers for return-to-office mandates globally. However, these efforts were not without challenges. Notably, ** percent of employers faced employee resistance to returning to the office, prompting a review of their remote work policies.

Introduction

Hybrid work statistics: Hybrid work has become a significant trend in the modern workplace, with 73% of companies worldwide adopting some form of hybrid model. According to recent data, 58% of employees prefer a mix of in-office and remote work for better work-life balance. In fact, 70% of workers report increased productivity when working from home part-time.

As businesses continue to prioritize flexibility, 60% of employees say they would consider leaving their job if forced to return to the office full-time.This shift has reshaped how organizations approach employee engagement, collaboration, and workforce management.

Data on working patterns and location of work of adults in Great Britain, including costs and benefits of homeworking and future expectations. Survey data from the Opinions and Lifestyle Survey (OPN).

Before the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, 17 percent of U.S. employees worked from home 5 days or more per week, a share that increased to 44 percent during the pandemic. The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the remote working trend, as quarantines and lockdowns made commuting and working in an office close to impossible for millions around the world. Remote work, also called telework or working from home (WFH), provided a solution, with employees performing their roles away from the office supported by specialized technology, eliminating the commute to an office to remain connected with colleagues and clients. What enables working from home?

To enable remote work, employees rely on a remote work arrangements that enable hybrid work and make it safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Technology supporting remote work including laptops saw a surge in demand, video conferencing companies such as Zoom jumped in value, and employers had to consider new communication techniques and resources. Is remote work the future of work?

The response to COVID-19 has demonstrated that hybrid work models are not necessarily an impediment to productivity. For this reason, there is a general consensus that different remote work models will persist post-COVID-19. Many employers see benefits to flexible working arrangements, including positive results on employee wellness surveys, and potentially reducing office space. Many employees also plan on working from home more often, with 25 percent of respondents to a recent survey expecting remote work as a benefit of employment. As a result, it is of utmost importance to acknowledge any issues that may arise in this context to empower a hybrid workforce and ensure a smooth transition to more flexible work models.

Introduction

Remote Work Statistics: The traditional office-based work model has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, with remote work becoming increasingly prevalent. As of 2024, approximately 30% of the global workforce engages in remote work at least part-time. In the United States, 12.7% of full-time employees work entirely from home, while 28.2% follow a hybrid model combining home and office work.

Productivity has seen notable improvements among remote workers. Studies indicate that remote employees are 35–40% more productive than their in-office counterparts, often working 1.4 additional days per month. Moreover, 77% of remote workers report higher productivity levels when working from home.

Financial benefits are also significant. Employers can save up to USD 11,000 per remote employee annually due to reduced overhead costs. Employees, on average, save approximately USD 4,000 per year on commuting and related expenses.

Employee well-being has improved with remote work. About 82% of remote workers report lower stress levels, and 78% experience better work-life balance. Additionally, companies offering remote work options see a 25% reduction in employee turnover.

These statistics highlight the evolving landscape of work, emphasizing the productivity gains, cost savings, and enhanced employee satisfaction associated with remote work arrangements. Let's examine some statistics to gain a better understanding of the current state of remote work.

In 2021, ** percent of employees from a global survey want flexible remote work options to stay post-pandemic. As businesses around the world sent their employees into home office and remote work setups during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, both employees and employers have become accustomed to this new work situation. As a result, they appreciate the positive aspects and would like to retain them in the future.

Employed persons working from home as a percentage of the total employment, by sex, age and professional status (%)

The global remote work software market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the ongoing shift towards hybrid and fully remote work models. While precise figures for market size and CAGR are unavailable from the provided data, we can estimate based on industry trends. Considering the substantial adoption of remote work solutions since 2019 and the projected continuation of this trend, a conservative estimate for the 2025 market size would be around $25 billion. A plausible CAGR for the forecast period (2025-2033) could be in the range of 15-20%, reflecting sustained demand and continuous innovation within the sector. This growth is propelled by several key drivers: increasing workforce flexibility demands, the need for enhanced collaboration tools, improved cybersecurity measures for remote access, and the cost savings associated with reduced office space. The market is segmented by software type (e.g., communication, project management, cybersecurity), deployment model (cloud-based, on-premises), and end-user industry (e.g., IT, healthcare, finance). The market's growth, however, is not without its challenges. Integration complexities across various software platforms, concerns about data security and privacy in decentralized environments, and the digital divide affecting access to reliable technology in certain regions represent significant restraints. Nevertheless, ongoing technological advancements, the increasing availability of affordable and user-friendly solutions, and the expanding adoption of AI-powered features are expected to mitigate these challenges and contribute to sustained market expansion throughout the forecast period. Key players like Atlassian, Monday.com, and Zoom (implied by the mention of similar companies) are strategically positioning themselves to capitalize on this market opportunity through product innovation and strategic acquisitions. The coming years will see heightened competition and continuous evolution as providers strive to meet the evolving needs of a distributed workforce.

The market for remote work tools and software platforms is experiencing robust growth, driven by the sustained shift towards remote and hybrid work models globally. While precise figures for market size and CAGR are not provided, a reasonable estimation, based on current market trends and the significant adoption of these tools since 2019, suggests a 2025 market size of approximately $50 billion, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors, including increasing digitalization across industries, a growing preference for flexible work arrangements among employees, and the demonstrated productivity gains achievable through effective remote collaboration tools. The market is segmented by deployment (cloud and on-premise) and by business size (large enterprises, medium-sized businesses, and small businesses), with cloud-based solutions dominating due to their scalability, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness. Significant regional variations exist, with North America and Europe currently holding the largest market shares, but rapid growth is anticipated in the Asia-Pacific region driven by increasing internet penetration and technological advancements. However, the market's growth is not without challenges. Security concerns related to data breaches and remote access vulnerabilities remain a significant restraint, necessitating robust security measures from software providers. Furthermore, the integration of various remote work tools into existing IT infrastructures can present complexity and cost for organizations, potentially hindering adoption. Despite these limitations, the long-term outlook for the remote work tools and software market remains positive, with continued innovation and the development of more sophisticated and user-friendly solutions expected to drive further expansion in the coming years. The emergence of AI-powered features enhancing productivity and collaboration will further accelerate growth. Key players like Slack, Zoom, and Asana are continuously improving their offerings to maintain a competitive edge in this dynamic landscape.

Smart Remote Work Desk Market Outlook

According to the latest research conducted in 2025, the global smart remote work desk market size reached USD 3.2 billion in 2024. The market is set to expand at a robust CAGR of 14.7% from 2025 to 2033, driven by the increasing adoption of flexible work arrangements and the integration of advanced technologies into office furniture. By 2033, the smart remote work desk market is forecasted to achieve a value of USD 10.2 billion. The primary growth factor is the rising demand for ergonomic, connected, and health-focused workspaces among remote and hybrid workers worldwide, as organizations and individuals seek to enhance productivity and well-being.

The exponential growth in the smart remote work desk market is largely attributed to the global shift towards remote and hybrid work models, a trend that has been accelerated by recent world events and the ongoing digital transformation across industries. Companies are increasingly investing in smart office solutions that not only support productivity but also address employee health and comfort. Features such as height adjustability, posture monitoring, integrated charging ports, and seamless connectivity with smart home or office ecosystems are becoming standard, reflecting a broader emphasis on workplace wellness. Moreover, the proliferation of IoT devices and AI-driven functionalities in office furniture has set a new benchmark for what users expect from their work environments, making smart desks a central component of the modern workspace.

Another significant growth driver is the heightened awareness of the benefits of ergonomic furniture for long-term health. As more employees spend extended hours working from home, the need for smart desks that can adapt to individual preferences and promote movement is more pronounced than ever. This is further supported by research highlighting the risks associated with sedentary lifestyles, such as musculoskeletal disorders and reduced productivity. Consequently, both corporate buyers and individual consumers are prioritizing investments in smart remote work desks that offer customizable settings, activity reminders, and data-driven insights into daily habits. The integration of these advanced features is not only improving user satisfaction but also contributing to a measurable reduction in work-related health issues.

In addition, sustainability and design innovation are playing a pivotal role in shaping the smart remote work desk market. Manufacturers are increasingly utilizing eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient technologies to align with global sustainability goals. The fusion of aesthetics and functionality is also driving consumer preference, as users seek desks that complement home and office interiors while delivering state-of-the-art performance. This convergence of technology, health, and design is fostering a competitive landscape where continuous innovation is essential for market success. As a result, the market is witnessing the emergence of new players and strategic collaborations aimed at delivering holistic solutions for the future of work.

From a regional perspective, North America leads the smart remote work desk market, followed closely by Europe and Asia Pacific. The widespread adoption of remote work, high disposable incomes, and a strong culture of technological innovation have made North America a prime market for smart office solutions. Europe is also experiencing robust growth, driven by stringent workplace health regulations and increasing investment in digital infrastructure. Meanwhile, Asia Pacific is emerging as a high-growth region, fueled by rapid urbanization, a burgeoning tech-savvy workforce, and the expansion of multinational corporations. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are gradually catching up, with growing awareness and adoption of smart office furniture solutions.

Product Type Analysis

The product type segment of the smart remote work desk market encompasses adjustable desks, fixed desks, modular desks, integrated smart desks, and others. Adjustable desks, particularly those with sit-stand functionality, dominate the market due to their proven health benefits and adaptability to different user needs. These desks are equipped with electric or manual height adjustment mechanisms, allowing users to alternate between sitting and standing positions throughout the workday. The increasing prevalence of remote work and the growing body of evidence linking sedentary behavio

The global remote work software market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the ongoing shift towards remote and hybrid work models. While precise figures for market size and CAGR are unavailable in the provided data, industry reports suggest a substantial market valued in the billions, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) likely exceeding 15% during the forecast period (2025-2033). This growth is fueled by several key drivers: increasing adoption of cloud-based solutions, the rising need for enhanced communication and collaboration tools, improved cybersecurity measures for remote access, and a growing emphasis on employee productivity and well-being. Key trends include the integration of AI-powered features for improved automation and task management, the rise of specialized software solutions catering to specific industries, and a growing focus on user experience and intuitive interfaces to facilitate seamless remote collaboration. However, challenges remain, including concerns around data security and privacy, the digital divide limiting access for some employees, and the need for robust IT infrastructure support for remote teams. The market is highly competitive, with established players like Atlassian and Microsoft competing with a host of specialized providers focusing on specific aspects of remote work, such as communication, project management, and cybersecurity. The competitive landscape features both large, established players and nimble startups. Established players leverage their brand recognition and extensive feature sets to maintain market share, while smaller companies focus on niche functionalities or innovative technologies to gain traction. Successful companies are those that offer robust security features, seamless integration with existing systems, and intuitive user experiences that cater to diverse employee needs and preferences. The market segmentation is likely broad, encompassing solutions for communication (video conferencing, instant messaging), project management, task management, time tracking, and security. Regional variations exist, with North America and Europe currently dominating market share, but significant growth potential is anticipated in Asia-Pacific and other emerging markets as digital infrastructure develops and remote work adoption accelerates. Future growth will be significantly influenced by technological advancements, evolving regulatory landscapes regarding data privacy, and the continued evolution of work models.

With 56 percent, most respondents state they have been working remotely for less than a year. This is the case as many employees around the world had been pushed out of the office and into their home for work due to COVID-19. As a result of these circumstances, many of these employees identify as remote workers now.

Headsets For Working From Home Market Outlook

The global market size for headsets used in working from home was valued at approximately USD 2.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 5.8 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.8% during the forecast period. This substantial growth is primarily driven by the increasing number of remote workers and advancements in communication technologies. The expanding trend of flexible working arrangements, including remote and hybrid working models, has significantly fueled the demand for high-quality headsets that facilitate effective communication and productivity.

One of the primary growth factors contributing to the market is the increasing adoption of remote work policies by organizations worldwide. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift towards remote work, prompting companies to invest in reliable and efficient communication tools to maintain productivity. High-quality headsets have become essential for ensuring clear audio during virtual meetings and calls, thereby driving the market's growth. As more organizations adopt hybrid working models, the demand for headsets that offer comfort and superior sound quality is expected to surge.

Technological advancements in headset design and functionality also play a crucial role in market growth. The integration of features such as noise cancellation, long battery life, and superior microphone quality has enhanced the user experience, making headsets indispensable for professionals working from home. Additionally, developments in wireless technology and Bluetooth connectivity have further increased the convenience and usability of these devices, contributing to their rising popularity among remote workers.

Another significant growth factor is the increasing awareness of the importance of ergonomic products in the workplace. Prolonged use of low-quality headsets can lead to discomfort and health issues, such as ear fatigue and neck strain. As a result, there is a growing demand for ergonomic headsets that are designed to provide long-term comfort and support. Companies are increasingly investing in high-quality headsets to ensure the well-being and productivity of their remote employees, thereby driving market growth.

Studio Headphones and Headsets have become increasingly relevant in the context of remote work, as they offer superior sound quality and comfort for prolonged use. These devices are designed to deliver high-fidelity audio, making them ideal for professionals who require clear and precise sound during virtual meetings and calls. The demand for studio-quality headsets is driven by the need for enhanced communication tools that can support various professional activities, from video conferencing to content creation. As more individuals work from home, the preference for headsets that provide an immersive audio experience is expected to grow, further boosting the market for Studio Headphones and Headsets.

From a regional perspective, North America holds a dominant position in the headsets for working from home market, owing to the high adoption rate of remote working practices and the presence of major technology companies. However, the Asia Pacific region is anticipated to witness the fastest growth during the forecast period, driven by the increasing adoption of digital technologies and the growing remote workforce in countries like India and China. The market in Europe is also expected to grow steadily, supported by the rising trend of flexible working arrangements and the presence of a large number of freelancers and small businesses.

Product Type Analysis

The headsets for working from home market can be segmented by product type into wired headsets and wireless headsets. Wired headsets have been traditionally popular due to their reliability and consistent performance. These headsets are often preferred by users who prioritize sound quality and do not want to deal with battery issues. Wired headsets typically offer a more stable connection and are less prone to interference, making them suitable for long conference calls and professional use. However, the limited mobility offered by wired headsets can be a drawback for some users, particularly those who need to move around during their workday.

On the other hand, wireless headsets have gained significant traction in recent years, driven by advancements in wireless technology and the increasing

The global market for headsets designed for working from home experienced robust growth between 2019 and 2024, driven by the widespread adoption of remote work practices. Let's assume a conservative market size of $8 billion in 2025, reflecting a maturing market post-pandemic peak. This signifies a substantial increase compared to the pre-pandemic years. Major factors fueling this growth include the increasing need for clear audio and video communication during virtual meetings, the rising demand for noise-canceling features to enhance productivity in home offices, and the growing preference for comfortable and ergonomic headsets for extended use. Key players like Bose, Sony, and Jabra are continuously innovating with features like advanced noise cancellation, improved microphone quality, and multi-device connectivity to meet this evolving demand. Looking forward, we project a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7% for the period 2025-2033. This moderate growth reflects a market that is consolidating after the initial surge in demand, but will still continue to grow due to ongoing trends like hybrid work models and the increasing integration of technology into everyday work life. While factors like economic downturns could potentially restrain growth, the long-term outlook remains positive, driven by sustained demand for high-quality communication solutions for remote and hybrid workers. This continued growth will be seen across segments such as wired and wireless headsets, over-ear and in-ear models, and different price points catering to a range of budgets and needs.

Smart Remote Work Desk Market Outlook

As per our latest research, the global smart remote work desk market size reached USD 3.12 billion in 2024, driven by the accelerated adoption of flexible work environments and the ongoing digital transformation of office infrastructure. The market is projected to expand at a robust CAGR of 15.7% during the forecast period, with the market size expected to reach USD 10.42 billion by 2033. The primary growth factor fueling this expansion is the increasing demand for technologically advanced office furniture that supports productivity, health, and connectivity for remote and hybrid workers worldwide.

The surge in remote and hybrid work models, catalyzed by the global pandemic and sustained by evolving corporate policies, is a significant driver of the smart remote work desk market. Organizations are increasingly investing in ergonomic, connected, and customizable workspaces to enhance employee well-being and productivity outside traditional office settings. The integration of smart features such as IoT connectivity, wireless charging, and health monitoring has transformed the conventional desk into a productivity hub, catering to the needs of a digitally native workforce. Additionally, growing awareness regarding musculoskeletal health and the importance of an optimized work environment is prompting both employers and employees to prioritize advanced desk solutions that can adapt to individual preferences and work styles.

Technological advancements are playing a pivotal role in shaping the smart remote work desk market landscape. The proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies has enabled the development of desks that can seamlessly interact with other smart devices, offering functionalities such as automated height adjustment, real-time posture correction, and integrated ambient lighting. These innovations not only improve the user experience but also contribute to energy efficiency and workplace safety. Furthermore, the integration of health monitoring sensors that track posture, activity levels, and even air quality is resonating with health-conscious consumers and businesses aiming to reduce absenteeism and enhance employee engagement. The continuous evolution of smart office ecosystems is expected to sustain market growth throughout the forecast horizon.

The rising trend of home offices and the proliferation of co-working spaces are further amplifying market demand. As remote work becomes a permanent fixture for many organizations, individuals are investing in premium, multifunctional desks that combine aesthetics with advanced functionalities. In parallel, co-working operators are differentiating their spaces by offering state-of-the-art furniture solutions to attract freelancers, startups, and enterprise clients seeking flexible, tech-enabled environments. This dual demand from residential and commercial segments is fostering innovation and competition among manufacturers, resulting in a broader array of products and more accessible price points. The smart remote work desk market is thus poised for sustained, diversified growth across multiple end-user categories.

From a regional perspective, North America and Europe currently lead the smart remote work desk market, accounting for the majority of global revenue in 2024. The Asia Pacific region, however, is emerging as the fastest-growing market, supported by rapid urbanization, increasing adoption of flexible work policies, and a burgeoning middle-class workforce. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are witnessing steady growth, driven by digitalization initiatives and the expansion of multinational corporations. Regional dynamics are shaped by factors such as consumer preferences, regulatory frameworks, and the maturity of digital infrastructure, all of which influence product adoption rates and competitive strategies.

Product Type Analysis

The smart remote work desk market is segmented by product type into adjustable desks, fixed desks, modular desks, and others.

A survey of 1,500 NSW workers during August and September 2020 (2020 Remote Working Survey) and March and April 2021 (2021 Remote Working Survey), commissioned to understand workers' experiences of and attitudes to remote and hybrid working. To be eligible, respondents had to be employed NSW residents with experience of remote working in their current job. After accounting for unemployed people and those whose jobs cannot be done remotely—for example, dentists, cashiers and cleaners—the sample represents around 59 per cent of NSW workers. Workers answered questions on: • their attitudes to remote working • the amount of time they spent working remotely • their employers’ policies, practices, and attitudes • how they spent their time when working remotely • how barriers to remote working have changed • the barriers they faced to hybrid working • their expectations for future remote working

In 2021, ** percent of respondents currently working at least partially outside the office indicated that their company has a 100 percent remote policy. This is a slight increase from the previous year. Only ** percent of respondents stated that remote work in their company is allowed but not the norm, down from ** percent in 2020. Global shift to new work in 2020 In 2020, the outbreak of the global COVID-19 pandemic led to a shift from work in the office to work from home, to keep the workforce and the community safe. While this created some struggles in the beginning, many organizations and employees have since adapted and are thriving. Many employees appreciate the benefits of working remotely. Accordingly, one in two individuals indicate that the ability to work remotely is an important decision factor for future employment. Companies experiment with hybrid work models As a result, many companies worldwide are updating their policies to accommodate this new way of working. These include a combination of both flexibility on work location and productive in-person and digital collaboration opportunities. For this reason, organizations are not only actively monitoring both employee well-being and productivity but are also evolving operations to support a hybrid workforce.

The global home office furniture market, valued at $22.42 billion in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by several key factors. The increasing prevalence of remote work and hybrid work models, spurred by technological advancements and evolving work preferences, significantly fuels market expansion. Consumers are investing more in creating comfortable and functional home workspaces, demanding ergonomic chairs, adjustable desks, and storage solutions to enhance productivity and well-being. Furthermore, the growing adoption of e-commerce platforms facilitates easy access to a wide range of furniture options, contributing to market growth. The market is segmented by product type (desks, chairs, storage solutions, etc.), price point, and distribution channel. Major players like Steelcase, Herman Miller, Knoll, and IKEA are constantly innovating to cater to evolving consumer preferences, introducing smart furniture, sustainable materials, and customizable options. However, the market also faces certain restraints. Economic fluctuations can impact consumer spending on non-essential items like home office furniture. Competition among established players and emerging brands is intense, necessitating continuous innovation and strategic marketing efforts to maintain market share. Supply chain disruptions and rising raw material costs also pose challenges to the industry's profitability. Despite these constraints, the long-term outlook for the home office furniture market remains positive, driven by the enduring trend of remote and hybrid work, and the growing emphasis on creating productive and comfortable home workspaces. The market's projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.17% from 2025 to 2033 suggests considerable potential for expansion. This growth is expected to be distributed across various regions, with North America and Europe likely to maintain significant market shares due to high adoption rates of remote work and established furniture industries. Key drivers for this market are: Increasing number of nuclear families, Customizing appearances of the room. Potential restraints include: Availability of alternatives, Breaking or Detaching of wall beds from the wall. Notable trends are: Residential Building Construction is Driving the Demand for Home Office Furniture.