The average daily time spent with digital media in the United States is expected to increase from 439 minutes (seven hours and 19 minutes) in 2022 to close to eight hours in 2025. Higher online media consumption in 2020 was partially attributed to the coronavirus outbreak. Impact of COVID-19 on media consumption In-home media consumption grew sharply in March 2020 in the first stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. More than 40 percent of U.S. respondents reported spending more time watching shows and films on streaming services, and 25 percent were reading books or listening to audiobooks more than usual. Despite predictions that this spike in media usage would fall after the initial implementation of shelter-in-place orders, consumers also continued spending more time with media in the summer of 2020. The same survey, held in July that year, also asked participants about their plans to continue with their increased media consumption after the pandemic has run its course. This garnered different responses, with only a handful of U.S. adults planning to carry on investing more time in most media activities. Again though, watching movies and shows on streaming platforms and reading or listening to books were the most popular options.

During the third quarter of 2024, internet users in the United States spent over six hours daily using the internet, with over 4.5 hours spent viewing video content on TV (both broadcast and streamed) as well as more than 2 hours devoted to using social media platforms. This substantial amount of time spent with online media reflects a significant trend in consumption habits, which have been influenced by the need for inexpensive, faster, and more accessible entertainment. Media Consumption Trends and Future Plans The average daily time spent with digital media in the United States is expected to increase from 439 minutes (seven hours and 19 minutes) in 2022 to close to 8 hours by the end of 2025. This pivot is dictated by the ease of access of online entertainment and variety of content available on numerous platforms.According to a survey conducted in April 2023, the majority of consumers in the United States were not planning to make any major changes to most of their media habits in the following year. However, a notable 21 percent planned to increase their time spent listening to podcasts. In general, there was an evident shift towards reducing or ending paid subscriptions to numerous media services. Free entertainment is on social A survey conducted in June 2023 highlighted that adults in the United States spent more time per day on TikTok than on any other leading social media platform, with an average of 53.8 minutes per day. The video sharing network gained more popularity with users than YouTube and Twitter. This underlines the growing interest in short form video and fast entertainment options. Today consumers step away from traditional media and dive into online offers.

During a 2024 survey, 77 percent of respondents from Nigeria stated that they used social media as a source of news. In comparison, just 23 percent of Japanese respondents said the same. Large portions of social media users around the world admit that they do not trust social platforms either as media sources or as a way to get news, and yet they continue to access such networks on a daily basis.

              Social media: trust and consumption

              Despite the majority of adults surveyed in each country reporting that they used social networks to keep up to date with news and current affairs, a 2018 study showed that social media is the least trusted news source in the world. Less than 35 percent of adults in Europe considered social networks to be trustworthy in this respect, yet more than 50 percent of adults in Portugal, Poland, Romania, Hungary, Bulgaria, Slovakia and Croatia said that they got their news on social media.

              What is clear is that we live in an era where social media is such an enormous part of daily life that consumers will still use it in spite of their doubts or reservations. Concerns about fake news and propaganda on social media have not stopped billions of users accessing their favorite networks on a daily basis.
              Most Millennials in the United States use social media for news every day, and younger consumers in European countries are much more likely to use social networks for national political news than their older peers.
              Like it or not, reading news on social is fast becoming the norm for younger generations, and this form of news consumption will likely increase further regardless of whether consumers fully trust their chosen network or not.

Find detailed analysis in Market Research Intellect's Mem Media Consumption Market Report, estimated at USD 45 billion in 2024 and forecasted to climb to USD 70 billion by 2033, reflecting a CAGR of 6.5%.Stay informed about adoption trends, evolving technologies, and key market participants.

1) Data Introduction • The Social Media Usage Dataset(Applications) features patterns and activity indicators that 1,000 users use seven major social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

2) Data Utilization (1) Social Media Usage Dataset(Applications) has characteristics that: • This dataset provides different social media activity data for each user, including daily usage time, number of posts, number of likes received, and number of new followers. (2) Social Media Usage Dataset(Applications) can be used to: • Analysis of User Participation by Platform: You can analyze participation and popular trends by platform by comparing usage time and activity for each social media. • Establish marketing strategy: Based on user activity data, it can be used for targeted marketing, content production, and user retention strategies.

Online Media Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global online media market size reached USD 468.2 billion in 2024, reflecting a robust and sustained expansion driven by digital transformation across industries. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.1% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an estimated USD 1,209.6 billion by 2033. This remarkable growth trajectory is primarily fueled by increased internet penetration, the proliferation of smart devices, and the rising demand for diverse digital content formats. As per our analysis, the online media market is undergoing rapid evolution, with innovative business models and advanced technologies shaping the future of content consumption and monetization globally.

The exponential growth of the online media market is being propelled by several significant factors. Firstly, the widespread adoption of high-speed internet and the rollout of 5G networks have dramatically enhanced the accessibility and quality of online media content. Consumers are now able to stream high-definition videos, participate in interactive social platforms, and access real-time news and information with unprecedented ease. This seamless connectivity has not only increased the time spent on digital platforms but also encouraged the creation of new content formats, such as live streaming and immersive podcasts, further driving user engagement and market growth. The convenience and flexibility offered by online media platforms have fundamentally changed consumer behavior, making digital content consumption an integral part of daily life worldwide.

Secondly, the diversification of revenue models within the online media industry has played a crucial role in market expansion. Traditional advertising remains a dominant force; however, the rise of subscription-based services, pay-per-view options, and freemium models has provided both consumers and content creators with greater flexibility and choice. Leading platforms are leveraging data analytics and artificial intelligence to personalize content recommendations and optimize advertising strategies, thereby increasing user retention and monetization rates. Moreover, the ongoing shift towards mobile-first consumption, particularly among younger demographics, has incentivized platforms to innovate and tailor their offerings for smartphones and other portable devices. This adaptability and focus on user experience have contributed significantly to the sustained growth of the online media market.

Another key growth driver is the increasing integration of online media into enterprise and educational environments. Businesses are utilizing digital platforms for marketing, brand engagement, and employee training, while educational institutions are leveraging online media for remote learning and knowledge dissemination. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this trend, highlighting the critical role of online media in maintaining communication, collaboration, and learning during periods of physical distancing. As organizations continue to invest in digital transformation, the demand for high-quality, interactive, and secure online media solutions is expected to rise, further expanding the addressable market.

From a regional perspective, Asia Pacific is emerging as the fastest-growing market for online media, driven by a large and youthful population, rapid urbanization, and increasing smartphone adoption. North America remains a mature and highly lucrative market, characterized by high consumer spending, technological innovation, and the presence of major industry players. Europe is witnessing steady growth, supported by robust digital infrastructure and regulatory initiatives promoting fair competition and content diversity. Meanwhile, Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are experiencing gradual growth, buoyed by improving internet connectivity and a growing appetite for digital content. Each region presents unique opportunities and challenges, influencing the competitive dynamics and strategic priorities of market participants.

Platform Analysis</

How much time do people spend on social media? As of 2025, the average daily social media usage of internet users worldwide amounted to 141 minutes per day, down from 143 minutes in the previous year. Currently, the country with the most time spent on social media per day is Brazil, with online users spending an average of 3 hours and 49 minutes on social media each day. In comparison, the daily time spent with social media in the U.S. was just 2 hours and 16 minutes. Global social media usageCurrently, the global social network penetration rate is 62.3 percent. Northern Europe had an 81.7 percent social media penetration rate, topping the ranking of global social media usage by region. Eastern and Middle Africa closed the ranking with 10.1 and 9.6 percent usage reach, respectively. People access social media for a variety of reasons. Users like to find funny or entertaining content and enjoy sharing photos and videos with friends, but mainly use social media to stay in touch with current events friends. Global impact of social mediaSocial media has a wide-reaching and significant impact on not only online activities but also offline behavior and life in general. During a global online user survey in February 2019, a significant share of respondents stated that social media had increased their access to information, ease of communication, and freedom of expression. On the flip side, respondents also felt that social media had worsened their personal privacy, increased a polarization in politics and heightened everyday distractions.

The digital media market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing internet and smartphone penetration, evolving consumer preferences towards digital content consumption, and the rise of innovative advertising models. The market, estimated at $500 billion in 2025, is projected to maintain a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 15% from 2025 to 2033, reaching approximately $1.8 trillion by 2033. This expansion is fueled by the proliferation of streaming services, the increasing popularity of short-form video content, and the continued development of personalized content experiences. Key players such as ViacomCBS, WebMD, and The New York Times Company are strategically investing in content creation, technology, and data analytics to capitalize on these trends. However, challenges remain, including increasing competition, concerns about data privacy, and the need for sustainable monetization strategies in the face of evolving advertising landscapes. The market is segmented by content type (news, entertainment, education), platform (website, mobile app, social media), and geographic region, offering opportunities for targeted growth and investment. The significant growth in the digital media landscape is further propelled by the adoption of advanced technologies like AI and machine learning for content creation, personalization, and targeted advertising. This fosters enhanced user engagement and allows companies to refine their strategies based on real-time data analysis. Regional variations in market penetration and consumer behavior necessitate tailored strategies for different geographic segments. North America and Europe currently dominate the market, but rapid growth in Asia-Pacific and other emerging economies presents substantial opportunities for expansion. The competitive landscape is characterized by both established media giants and agile digital-native companies, leading to constant innovation and consolidation. Successful players will need to focus on delivering high-quality, engaging content, effectively managing user data, and adapting to the evolving technological and regulatory environments.

Americans are spending more time than ever consuming media, with projections indicating a continued upward trend. In 2023, the average daily time spent with major media formats, including television, newspapers, magazines, radio, and digital platforms, reached 12 hours and 31 minutes. This figure is expected to surpass 13 hours and 40 minutes by 2026, highlighting the growing role of media in daily life. Digital media dominates consumption The increase in overall media consumption is largely driven by digital platforms. By 2025, U.S. consumers are anticipated to spend nearly 8 hours per day with digital media alone. This shift towards digital formats was accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a sharp increase in the usage of streaming services and e-books. Today the digital media thrives because of mobile internet and smart TVs, and it is likely to continue on this path as consumers are still looking for ease of access and on-the-go experiences. Generational differences in media habits While television remains the primary device among the general population, younger demographics show different media device preferences. A March 2024 study revealed that 33 percent of adults in the United States used mainly the TV for entertainment purposes. However, for those aged 18 to 34, smartphones were the primary device of choice. This generational divide in media consumption habits underscores the evolving landscape of entertainment and the growing importance of mobile devices in capturing younger audiences.

Entertainment & Media Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global Entertainment & Media market size reached USD 2.86 trillion in 2024, reflecting robust expansion across all segments. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.7% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an estimated USD 5.18 trillion by 2033. This growth is primarily driven by the rapid digital transformation, increased accessibility of content, and evolving consumer preferences worldwide. The Entertainment & Media sector continues to be a cornerstone of the global economy, adapting to technological innovations and shifting consumption patterns as highlighted in our comprehensive analysis.

One of the primary growth drivers of the Entertainment & Media market is the accelerating pace of digitalization. The proliferation of high-speed internet, the widespread adoption of smartphones, and the emergence of streaming platforms have revolutionized how content is produced, distributed, and consumed. Digital media, including streaming services and online gaming, have outpaced traditional formats in terms of growth, as consumers increasingly seek on-demand and personalized experiences. The shift towards digital platforms has also been catalyzed by advancements in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and immersive technologies such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), which are enhancing user engagement and creating new monetization opportunities for content creators and distributors.

Another significant factor fueling the expansion of the Entertainment & Media market is the diversification of revenue models. The rise of subscription-based services, targeted advertising, pay-per-view events, and sponsorships has enabled companies to tap into multiple streams of income. This diversification is crucial in an era where traditional advertising revenues are under pressure due to audience fragmentation and the decline of linear television viewership. The ability to offer flexible pricing models and tailored content packages has not only increased consumer retention but also allowed entertainment companies to better monetize their offerings. Furthermore, the integration of e-commerce and interactive features within entertainment platforms is driving higher engagement and unlocking new sources of value.

Globalization and the growing middle class in emerging markets have also played a pivotal role in the market’s expansion. As disposable incomes rise and access to digital infrastructure improves, consumers in regions such as Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Africa are increasingly participating in the global entertainment ecosystem. Content localization and regional partnerships are enabling companies to cater to diverse linguistic and cultural preferences, further broadening their reach. Additionally, the surge in international co-productions and the global distribution of content through digital platforms have made it possible for local creators to achieve worldwide recognition, driving both creative innovation and revenue growth.

From a regional perspective, North America continues to dominate the Entertainment & Media market in terms of revenue, owing to its advanced technological infrastructure and high consumer spending. However, Asia Pacific is emerging as the fastest-growing region, driven by its large population, increasing internet penetration, and rapid urbanization. Europe remains a significant market, characterized by a strong tradition of content creation and consumption across multiple platforms. Meanwhile, Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are witnessing steady growth, supported by improving economic conditions and investments in digital infrastructure. The interplay of local and global trends is shaping a dynamic and competitive landscape, with regional players increasingly collaborating with global giants to capture new opportunities.

Type Analysis

The Type segment of the Entertainment & Media market encompasse

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China Media And Entertainment Market Size 2025-2029

The media and entertainment market in China size is forecast to increase by USD 89 billion at a CAGR of 6.1% between 2024 and 2029.

The media and entertainment market is experiencing significant growth, driven by several key trends. One notable trend is the increasing demand for culturally relevant content, as consumers seek out media that resonates with their identities and experiences. Another trend is the growing popularity of virtual reality (VR) and 360-degree videos, which offer experiences that traditional media cannot match. Pirated content, particularly in video streaming, remains a significant challenge. However, the market also faces challenges, including the illegal downloading and piracy of content, which undermines the value of intellectual property and hinders the growth of the industry. Overall, the media and entertainment landscape is evolving rapidly, presenting both opportunities and challenges for market participants.

What will be the Size of the market During the Forecast Period?

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The media and entertainment market encompasses a dynamic and evolving landscape, characterized by an abundance of content supply and diverse media channels. Digital access has transformed the media environment, enabling consumers to engage with content on-demand through various platforms, including streaming services, video on demand, and social media. Advertising spending continues to shift towards digital channels, fueling innovation in media monetization and content licensing. Media consumption patterns are increasingly fragmented, with audiences demanding personalized and engaging experiences. Media industry players are leveraging technology to enhance media infrastructure, improve media analytics, and facilitate media strategy. Media regulation and ethics are critical issues, as media impact on audiences and demographics continues to evolve.


Media convergence and globalization have further disrupted traditional media models, necessitating a focus on media literacy and media studies. Content creation tools and content management systems enable media professionals to produce and distribute high-quality digital content, driving growth in media production and content marketing. Overall, the media market is experiencing significant change, driven by technological innovation, shifting consumer preferences, and evolving business models.

How is this market segmented and which is the largest segment?

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Application

  Wired
  Wireless


Revenue

  Advertisement revenue
  Subscription revenue
  Others


Type

  Film
  Music
  Social media
  Video and animation
  Others


Distribution Channel

  Digital platforms
  Traditional media


Geography

  China

By Application Insights

The wired segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The market incorporates various wired technologies for communication, data transfer, and signal transmission. Wired technology plays a crucial role in applications such as broadcasting and distribution of audio, video, and data signals from production studios to broadcasting stations. This technology ensures reliability and stability in critical operations, providing consistent performance with minimal latency and reduced susceptibility to interference. Wired connections are essential for uninterrupted media and entertainment services, delivering high-quality audiovisual experiences for production and live events. Key technologies include high-definition displays, powerful processors, enhanced connectivity, and real-time data transmission. The media and entertainment industry in China continues to evolve with advancements in digital transformation, streaming services, virtual reality, augmented reality, artificial intelligence, and experiences.
Content consumption trends include mobile-centric platforms, online television services, podcasts, and niche streaming services. Intellectual property rights, copyrighted material, and data privacy are significant concerns, with ongoing efforts to address unlawful websites, pirated content, and illicit cyber activity. The market is driven by increasing smartphone penetration, online consumption, broadband initiatives, and subscription-based models. Strategic partnerships, content diversification, and distribution capabilities are key strategies for companies in this dynamic market.

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Market Dynamics

Our China Media And Entertainment Market researchers analyzed the data with 2024 as the base year, along with the key drivers, trends, and

Pre-test analysis Y variable (excessive digital media consumption) results using IBM SPSS Statistics 26 for research title "Doomscrolling and Information Overload on Generation Z: Examining the Link Between Excessive Digital Media Consumption and Stress Level".

Metaverse-Driven Media Consumption Market size is expected to reach USD 1,654.6 million by 2034, from USD 330.6 million in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 17.4% by 2024-2034

Indicators from the Opinions and Lifestyle Survey (OPN) related to people’s social media use and attitudes towards elections in Great Britain.

A global survey conducted in March 2020 revealed that the coronavirus has had a direct impact on in-home media consumption around the world, with ** percent of total respondents professing to have read more books or listened to more audiobooks at home and ** percent having listened to more radio due to the COVID-19 pandemic, whilst more than ** percent of consumers spent longer on messaging services and social media. Interestingly, although at least ** percent of respondents in most countries said that they were watching more news coverage, figures for Australia and the United States were lower, amounting to just ** and ** percent respectively. Australians were also the least likely to be reading more newspapers; just **** percent of consumers said that they were doing so compared to the global total of ** percent. Whilst ** percent of Italians were spending longer on messaging services, in Japan the same was true for only ***** percent of respondents, and survey participants from China and the Philippines were by far the most likely to be spending more time on music streaming services.For further information about the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, please visit our dedicated Fact and Figures page.

Pre-test analysis Z variable (stress level) results using IBM SPSS Statistics 26 for research title "Doomscrolling and Information Overload on Generation Z: Examining the Link Between Excessive Digital Media Consumption and Stress Level".

Pre-test analysis X1 variable (doomscrolling) results using IBM SPSS Statistics 26 for research title "Doomscrolling and Information Overload on Generation Z: Examining the Link Between Excessive Digital Media Consumption and Stress Level".

Users spend an average of 19.6 hours per month on TikTok alone. This works out to be approximately 39 minutes per day.

A 2025 survey revealed that audiences using social networks for news engage with sources differently depending on the network; for example 48 percent of X (formerly Twitter) users paid the most attention to mainstream news outlets and journalists, while only 36 percent of TikTok users and 45 percent of Snapchat users did the same. These latter platforms saw higher attention directed toward creators and personalities, with 49 percent of TikTok users and 56 percent of Snapchat users engaging more with influencers and celebrities.

According to a global survey conducted in 2025, nearly half of X (formerly Twitter) users paid attention to news from mainstream news outlets and journalists, while an equal share engaged with content from creators and personalities, such as celebrities and influencers. This indicates a balanced split in attention between traditional media and individual voices on the platform.