A recent study reveals that 85% of urban households in Brazil have internet access, a significant increase from just 13% in 2005. The TIC Domicílios 2024 report, published by Cetic.br, highlights the transformation in digital connectivity over the past two decades, with 141 million individuals now regularly using the internet. However, despite this growth, only 22% of the population enjoys what is termed 'significant connectivity,' indicating ongoing challenges in access quality.
The study, released during the 10th Innovation Week by the National School of Public Administration, shows that while internet usage has soared, disparities remain stark. For instance, 100% of class A households have internet access, compared to only 68% in classes D and E. Additionally, 29 million Brazilians remain offline, predominantly from underprivileged backgrounds.
Smartphones have become the primary means of internet access, with 60% of users connecting solely through mobile devices. The report also notes a notable trend: 60% of Brazilians now use their TVs to access the internet, surpassing computer usage.
In terms of digital skills, higher education correlates with better online practices, such as verifying information and managing privacy settings. The report underscores the importance of internet access for utilizing public services and highlights a surge in online shopping, with 46% of internet users engaging in e-commerce this year. Notably, the payment method 'Pix' has overtaken credit cards, being used by 84% of respondents.
As Brazil celebrates 20 years of the TIC Domicílios survey, the findings serve as a crucial tool for informing public policy and addressing the digital divide that persists across socioeconomic lines.