New mobile news consumption research

More evidence that journalists must learn as much as they can about online and mobile media.  According to research published on mediapost.com, people are spending as much time on the Web as they are watching TV.

“The average U.S. household watches 13 hours weekly of traditional broadcast TV, equaling the same amount of hours spent online, according to “Understanding The Changing Needs Of The US Online Consumer, 2010.” The report, released Monday, bases the findings on Forrester’s survey of more than 30,000 consumers.”

Those ages 18 to 41 spend equal or more time with the Internet, and “Younger Boomers, ages 45 to 54, also now spend an equal amount of time with both media.”

Though TV watching has remained constant in the past five years, Internet use rose 121% since 2005, according to the study.

The huge increase is driven by mobile users who are logging on in record numbers.

The good news for journalists is that 16% of online mobile users are checking news, weather or sports. When Forrester analyzed individuals who access the mobile Internet at least weekly, that number skyrocketed to 60%.

Interestingly, the research indicates that “these mobile users are most likely male and college-educated, and their average household income is more than $92,000.”

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