Is TV News Losing Its Grip?

• In the United Kingdom, online news consumption has exceeded television, with 71% of individuals accessing online sources vs 70% for TV news.
• YouTube’s use for news increased from 7% in 2023 to 19% in 2024, indicating a larger shift towards digital platforms.
• Traditional newspapers and television news have diminished, with print reading declining and TV news viewership plummeting from 75% to 70%.

The way people consume news is changing dramatically. For many years, television was the primary source for breaking news, in-depth reports, and fascinating storytelling. However, with the emergence of the internet, online platforms have grown in popularity, surpassing traditional television as the primary news source for many people.

The Digital Disruption

The internet’s ability to provide real-time updates and a diverse range of content has transformed the way we consume news. Unlike television, which has defined schedules and limited content, online platforms provide a constant stream of news, appealing to a variety of interests and tastes. This transition has been expedited by social media, with platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram serving as vital tools for news dissemination and engagement.

Social media’s function in news distribution is critical. Users can curate their news feeds, interact with material, and discuss multiple points of view, all of which contribute to a more fragmented yet democratic news environment. The widespread availability of smartphones and tablets has made it easier for consumers to keep informed on the go.

The Growth of Online News

Recent surveys show major shifts in news consuming behaviour. YouTube, for example, has experienced a significant increase in its use as a news source, rising from 7% in 2023 to 19% by 2024. This increase can be due in part to YouTube’s earlier classification as “other online” sources, which accentuated its growth in recent surveys.

In contrast, traditional news sources such as print newspapers have declined. In only one year, the percentage of persons over the age of 55 who read print newspapers fell from 38% to 32%.

Online vs. Television

For the first time, online news sources have surpassed television in the United Kingdom. According to an Ofcom study, 71% of the public currently uses internet news services, while 70% rely on TV news bulletins. This represents a considerable shift from last year, when web usage was 68% and social media was 47%. A stunning 82% of young people aged 16 to 24 use social media to get their news.

Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram are the top three internet news providers. Meta, which owns Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, is the second most popular news source, with 40% of users accessing it for information.

Challenges and Concerns

The emergence of online news has not come without obstacles. The propagation of fake news and misinformation is a serious danger, as fraudulent content may spread quickly across digital channels. Furthermore, the concentration of media ownership among a few large businesses raises worries about possible censorship and bias.

Despite these disadvantages, many people prefer online news because of its convenience and accessibility. Online platforms provide interactive features, multimedia content, and personalised recommendations, which improve the user experience and keep viewers interested.

The Future of News Consumption

The digital revolution in news consumption is expected to evolve further. Emerging technologies like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) have the potential to provide immersive news experiences, while voice-activated assistants may become more vital for getting news updates.

Although online platforms have taken a prominent position, traditional television is unlikely to disappear. TV still has distinct advantages, such as conveying news in a visual and compelling manner.

In summary, the transition from television to online news marks a watershed moment in media history. While issues like misinformation must be addressed, the digital revolution presents great alternatives for how we keep informed. As we navigate this ever-changing landscape, we must embrace new tools while remaining sceptical of the content we consume.

Source: Ofcom