The number of internet users in the US and China is now equal. But they don't use the internet the same way, according to an interesting study.
- 78% of Chinese internet users visit social-networking sites, compared to 54% in the US.
- 54% of the Chinese play online game "frequently or constantly," compared to 27% in the US.
- 56% of Chinese spend at least ten hours a month in a virtual world (like Second Life), compared to a mere 6% in the US.
- Three times as many Chinese download or watch films online frequently.
- Chinese are five times more likely to use online dating service (only 3% in the US).
- 40% of Chinese internet users own a smartphone, that can do email and surf the web. Only 6% of US internet users own a smartphone.
The demographics--age breakdown, number of men vs. women--were the same. But very different populations. China's huge population and fast development means they'll very soon--maybe even now--have the world's largest base of internet users.
Career-wise, I've been hanging around and writing about and cheering on churches and pastors for the past 25 years as my denomination's Communications Director.
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