Survey: Ireland embracing streaming, Smart tech
March 26, 2018
The 2017 Ireland Communicates survey was conducted by the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) and its survey partner Ipsos MRBI. Over 1,500 Irish consumers and 500 SMEs were interviewed about their use and experiences of telecommunications in Ireland.
The trends highlighted in the 2017 Ireland Communicates survey reflect the growing importance of telecommunications in our everyday lives. The Irish are using technology in more ways than ever before, from streaming online TV content to video calling.
The vast majority of Irish consumers and SMEs interviewed as part of the 2017 Ireland Communicates survey were satisfied with their telecommunications providers. 16 per cent of Irish consumers are likely to switch their telecommunications bundle from their existing service provider in the next 12 months, with 38 per cent expecting they can make a saving of more than 5 per cent with a new provider.
There are significant differences in ICT usage across urban and rural areas. This is particularly evident for broadband; 73 per cent of urban respondents have fixed broadband, compared to 58 per cent of those from rural areas.
Instant messaging apps have reduced the use of SMS services, but they have not replaced them. 31 per cent of those using these apps say they still send the same number of text messages.
Consumers expect their usage of ‘smart’ technologies to increase over the coming few years. While 29 per cent of households currently have a Smart TV, the majority (56 per cent) expect that they will own one in five years’ time. Similar anticipated increases are evident for smart heating and other devices. Ownership of petrol or diesel cars is expected to fall from 84 per cent to 72 per cent making way for hybrid, fully electric and autonomous vehicles
Most consumers are aware that EU roaming charges have ended, and consequently 78 per cent are now more likely to roam in another EU country.
Half of households in rural areas are using DTT service Saorview, compared with a quarter in urban areas. More than two out of every five households say they use Netflix. 95 per cent of those with streaming services say they will watch live TV services, with 44 per cent saying that the amount of live TV they view is unchanged.