UK News

Online news overtakes TV for first time since 1960s

Ofcom reveals online news now more popular than TV, trust remains with TV

A recent survey by Ofcom indicates a significant shift in how people access their news, with online sites and apps now surpassing TV news for the first time since the 1960s. Despite the growing popularity, television and radio remain the most trusted sources.

Yih-Choung Teh, Ofcom’s group director of strategy and research, highlighted the enduring trust in TV news: “Television has dominated people’s news habits since the sixties, and it still commands really high trust.” He noted a generational shift towards online news, which is often perceived as less reliable.

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TV news reach has seen a gradual decline, dropping sharply from 75% to 70% last year. The study reveals that 71% of adults now source their news online.

Social media platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram are used by over half (52%) of UK adults to access news, an increase from 47% in 2023. Younger people predominantly use online platforms for news, but older generations are also increasingly turning to these sources.

Among those aged 55 and above, 54% now get their news online, with the majority visiting news websites directly. Only 28% of this age group access news via social media.

Despite the rise of online news, trust remains higher for TV and radio. About 69% of people consider TV channels trustworthy, compared to 53% for online sources.

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In light of these findings, Ofcom is initiating a review of public service media, which are vital for the UK’s democracy and public debate.

The first phase will evaluate the performance of public service broadcasters in delivering content to UK audiences, including online availability. The second phase will explore possible regulatory or legislative changes to support public service media in the future.

What Other Media Are Saying
  • The Pew Research Center reveals that digital devices are the primary source of news for Americans, with 86% getting news from smartphones, computers, or tablets, and 58% preferring digital devices over TV, radio, or print. The shift to digital news consumption is noteworthy, with half of Americans accessing news from social media and 30% from podcasts. (read more)
Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions asked about this news

Are online news sites now more popular than TV news?

Yes, sites and apps are now more popular than TV news.

Do people trust TV and radio news more than online news?

Yes, 69% of people rate TV channels as trustworthy compared to 53% for online sources.

What percentage of adults find their news online?

According to the study, 71% of adults.

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How many people aged 55+ find news online?

54% of people aged 55+ now find news online.

Is Ofcom doing anything in response to the survey?

Ofcom is launching a review of public service media to support democracy and public debate.

Jane Nelson

Jane is a seasoned journalist with over a decade of experience covering global trends, and investment strategies. She holds a degree in Political science and has worked for several leading publications before joining The Thaiger.

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