Over 90% of Brazilians Now Use the Internet, IBGE Reports
For the first time in history, more than 90% of Brazilians are using the internet, according to data released by the IBGE. This marks a significant milestone in digital inclusion across the country. The internet has reached 95% of Brazilian households, the highest level ever recorded, with notable growth observed over the past decade. Connectivity is now present in all regions and across various age groups. Many Brazilians, like artist Thiago Manzotti from Rio de Janeiro's Complexo da Maré, rely on the internet for numerous daily activities. A substantial 74% of users access the internet for financial services, avoiding physical trips to the bank. Furthermore, over half of internet users now make purchases online, and four in ten individuals utilize public services digitally. The elderly demographic has shown the most significant increase in internet usage in recent years. Among children aged 10 to 13, 84% are connected, a figure higher than in 2019. Nine out of ten Brazilians own a mobile phone, which serves as their primary means of accessing the internet. While the online world is increasingly integrated into life, experts like Dr. Daniel Becker emphasize the importance of balancing digital engagement with real-world activities, particularly for young children, to ensure healthy development.
The IBGE's report highlights a profound shift in Brazilian society towards widespread internet adoption, driven by increasing accessibility and perceived utility for essential services like finance and public administration. This digital penetration presents opportunities for enhanced economic participation and civic engagement. However, the rapid integration, especially among younger demographics, raises critical questions about digital literacy, equitable access to quality online content, and the potential for widening societal divides if digital skills are not universally cultivated. The medical expert's caution regarding excessive screen time for children underscores the need for balanced digital citizenship education, ensuring that technology complements, rather than hinders, crucial developmental milestones and real-world social interaction.
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