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Global internet users surpass 6 billion

The latest Digital 2026 report from Meltwater and We Are Social highlights significant milestones in global digital behaviour, with internet users now exceeding 6 billion worldwide. This comprehensive analysis also reveals that social media users constitute nearly 70% of the global population, whilst over 1 billion people engage with AI-powered tools monthly.

The report underscores the rapid evolution of digital landscapes, particularly in Southeast Asia and Singapore. In Singapore, internet adoption is remarkably high, with 98.9% of the population online. The nation ranks 16th globally for ChatGPT usage among individuals aged 16 and above, with 37.1% of Singaporeans using the AI tool, surpassing the global average of 26.5%.

Social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube are widely used in Singapore, with 56.5% and 71.6% of the population engaging with these platforms, respectively. Interestingly, Singaporeans prefer search engines over social media for brand discovery, with 34.2% using search engines compared to 29.5% relying on social media.

Online shopping is prevalent, with 58.8% of Singaporeans making weekly purchases online, indicating a preference for digital over physical retail. Additionally, 63.7% of Singaporeans pay for digital content monthly, slightly below the global average of 67%.

The report also highlights concerns about online misinformation, with 71.1% of Singaporeans expressing worry. These insights provide a detailed view of the shifting digital ecosystem, influencing how businesses and individuals interact online. Country-level reports offering deeper insights into Singapore’s digital trends are expected next month.

This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.

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