Research: 66% fail to download software updates on Xmas gifts
December 19, 2023
With Christmas Daty approaching, and the cost of entertaining guests set to be more expensive than last year, research from Virgin Media O2 reveals that more than half (53 per cent) of Gen Z would expect friends and family to contribute towards celebrations for the big day.
Whilst Gen Z top the list of those looking to clawback some cash when hosting, a third (34 per cent) of Millennials would also expect guests to contribute towards the price of food, drinks, WiFi and energy bills over the festive season. At the opposite end, only one in ten (9 per cent) Baby boomers, those aged between 59-77, would consider charging guests.
The research also reveals Brits’ common connectivity mishaps at Christmas time, with one in three (34 per cent) Gen Z broadband users admitting to having risked their connectivity in the past by wrapping their broadband router in tinsel, compared to Baby boomers who are more than 11x less likely to do the same (3 per cent).
The ‘decorative don’ts’ don’t stop there, with nearly two thirds (59 per cent) of festive fanatics putting their Christmas lights in the same room as their broadband router which could interfere with their WiFi.
With millions of households across the country rushing to play with new gadgets, stream festive films and video call loved ones, connectivity on Christmas Day is a modern day must, so it’s no surprise that half of Brits (50 per cent) said that a poor broadband connection could put a damper on their day.
Despite this reliance on connectivity, two thirds (66 per cent) of Brits fail to prepare ahead of the big day by not downloading software updates for tech gadgets and video games they’re gifting, delaying play when they’re unwrapped on Christmas Day.
While games and consoles are regulars on Christmas gift lists, it seems being present during the day divides the room, as nearly half (48 per cent) of those that celebrate Christmas would enforce a screen time limit on their guests to ensure everyone is spending quality time together. Luckily for Christmas hosts, Virgin Media’s Connect App means those with Virgin Media broadband can keep guests in check by pausing internet access to their respective devices, so there’s plenty of time to celebrate the festivities together.