Fast broadband will improve Christmas cheer, finds nbn

A new research report released by nbn suggests that Australian internet usage will increase 30% over Christmas when compared to the same time last year.

The Season of Connectivity Report suggests that increased access to fast broadband in Australian households is allowing them to connect with loved ones who cannot attend their festivities, as well as researching recipe ideas and purchasing gadgets as gifts.

According to the research, 84% of Australians rank spending time with family and friends as their number one priority over Christmas. At least one third will be using video calling or chat applications to connect with loved ones in other locations, while more than half will share holiday messages on social media.

“In the past, being connected during the holiday season meant physically having to travel to be together,” said Chris Riddell, digital technology futurist.

“Technology has broken down the limitations of time and distance by allowing us to connect with friends and family from the comfort of our own home, allowing us to avoid missing out on precious memories.

“Time-poor Aussies are also turning to tech to help them discover new ways of preparing for the festive season by streaming video tutorials and avoid the mad shopping rush by buying their holiday groceries online.”

Indeed, 44% of those surveyed indicated that they were planning to use the internet to stream video tutorials that would help them prepare new recipes and holiday meals. 31% will buy their groceries online to avoid queues.

One in five survey respondents said they would buy a gadget or internet-connected device for a family member or loved one this year. Experts predict gaming consoles, virtual reality headsets and drones to be among the top tech gifts in 2016.

Image courtesy of nbn