The number of internet users in Mexico has now surpassed 100 million, recently driven by the launch of artificial intelligence (AI) applications, according to the Study on Internet User Habits in Mexico 2024, conducted by the Internet MX Association.
The country recorded a 5.2 percent increase in the total number of internet users in the latest measurement, rising from 96.9 million in 2022 to 101.9 million internet users at the end of 2023, representing 84 percent of the population over 6 years old.
Additionally, there is a notable increase in the average connection time, according to the twentieth edition of the report, prepared in collaboration with the analysis platform Knowsy A.I and the Council of Data and Emerging Technologies (CDETech), and presented at La Salle University on the occasion of Internet Day 2024.
The percentage of users who are connected for nine hours or more rose by 11 percentage points, to 39 percent, while those who use the internet between seven and nine hours increased by 6.4 points and now represent 22 percent.
Inversely, internet users connected for one to three hours decreased by 5.2 points, to 7 percent.
54 percent of millennials (28 to 43 years old) maintain connectivity of more than nine hours, significantly separating from Generation X (44 to 59 years old), which presents 37 percent for that time; Generation Z (up to 27 years old), with a proportion of 33 percent, and baby boomers (60 to 78 years old), with 24 percent.
“At the threshold of 2024, Mexico is experiencing a notable technological transformation, driven by the expansion of connectivity and the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI). This advance not only modifies daily interactions but also redefines economic and social structures throughout the country,” highlights the study.
“As these technologies evolve, new opportunities for development are created, and significant challenges arise that require attention and strategic adaptation.”
59 percent of the surveyed population claims to have used some artificial intelligence application on the internet in 2024.
Regarding the perception of artificial intelligence as a tool for decision-making, 74 percent of those surveyed see it as positive, 10 percent seem to echo the fears associated with AI, indicating that it replaces human decisions or negatively influences, and 16 percent acknowledge knowing nothing about the subject.
“The incorporation of new emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, into the business world in Mexico is crucial to maintaining competitiveness in a constantly evolving global environment. These technologies offer unprecedented opportunities to improve operational efficiency, informed decision-making, and the customization of products and services to meet the demands of the ever-changing market,” said Pablo Corona Fraga, president of the Internet MX Association.
“The implementation of these technologies can foster innovation and the development of new ideas and business models in Mexico,” added Julio César Vega, general director of the Association.
Within the areas where artificial intelligence is considered useful, activities related to work and productivity stand out with 56 percent, followed by educational and learning processes, with 48 percent.
Despite the expansion of internet penetration in the country, which represents a significant advance on the path to greater digital inclusion, the Internet MX Association warned that the national digitalization strategy should not only focus on expanding the geographical coverage of the service but also on ensuring its quality and continuity throughout the national territory.
“In this context, it is crucial to continue developing policies and strategies that promote broader digital inclusion. Special attention must be paid to reducing the digital divide in less developed areas and among lower socioeconomic groups, ensuring that the benefits of digitalization are accessible to all,” the document emphasizes.
The Association stated that technical problems in the connection service affecting 31 percent of users, the scarcity of offers perceived by 10 percent of respondents, and the cost of the service unaffordable for 9 percent of users underline the urgency of establishing more effective regulations and offering incentives that promote fair competition and economic accessibility in the telecommunications sector.
“In light of these data, it is essential to expand and improve internet infrastructure to reduce the digital divide and meet the needs of less connected regions,” notes the Study.
“The adoption of advanced technologies and investment in next-generation infrastructure are priorities to keep Mexico up to date with the global digital evolution. This implies improving existing networks and adopting new technologies, such as 5G and satellite connectivity solutions, to extend access where traditional infrastructure is insufficient or nonexistent,” the study explains.
Source: El Norte
