Who has the most screen time in the world?

Global Screen Time: A Country-by-Country Comparison

In the modern era, screens have become an integral part of our daily lives. From smartphones to laptops and televisions, we spend countless hours gazing at their flickering displays. A recent study has revealed significant variations in screen time consumption across the world.

Global Average Screen Time

According to the study, the average internet user globally spends an astonishing 6 hours and 40 minutes per day on screens. This equates to over 40 hours per week, or almost 2,200 hours per year. This staggering figure highlights the pervasive nature of screen-based activities in our society.

South Africa’s Exceptional Screen Time

One country that stands out from the global average is South Africa. South Africans spend a remarkable 9 hours and 24 minutes per day on screens, a full 2 hours and 44 minutes above the global average. This excessive screen time may be attributed to several factors, including a high rate of smartphone penetration, affordable data plans, and a culture that encourages online entertainment.

Other Countries with Elevated Screen Time

South Africa is not alone in its high screen time consumption. Nine other countries also exceed the global average. These countries include:

• Egypt: 9 hours 18 minutes
• Indonesia: 9 hours 12 minutes
• Thailand: 9 hours 6 minutes
• Philippines: 9 hours 2 minutes
• Brazil: 8 hours 58 minutes
• Mexico: 8 hours 54 minutes
• Russia: 8 hours 48 minutes
• China: 8 hours 42 minutes
• Vietnam: 8 hours 36 minutes

Implications of Excessive Screen Time

While screens can provide entertainment, information, and opportunities for connection, excessive screen time has also been linked to several health concerns. These include:

• Eye strain
• Neck and back pain
• Sleep disturbances
• Obesity
• Mental health issues

Conclusion

The study on global screen time reveals significant variations in screen time consumption across countries. South Africa stands out as the country with the highest screen time, spending over 9 hours per day on screens. This trend is also observed in nine other countries. It is important to be aware of the potential health implications of excessive screen time and to incorporate regular breaks and screen-free activities into our daily routines.