UK youngsters tune to online TV

Over half of young people in the UK watch TV online every week, and most are increasing the amount they watch via the internet. A survey conducted by market research firm YouGov found that 55% of 18-to-24 year-olds watch TV online at least once a week. That falls to 12% in the over-55s.

In findings that have implications for news content providers, the survey also revealed that 56% of 18-to-24 year-olds go online to follow a breaking news story, while older demos still rely on the TV. It also found a widespread lack of awareness among online TV users regarding whether a licence is required to watch TV content over the internet. UK rules stipulate a licence is only needed if live TV is being viewed.