Main devices used for media and entertainment in the U.S. 2024, by age

The entertainment landscape in the United States continues to evolve, with devices playing a crucial role in how Americans consume media. A March 2024 study reveals that television remains the primary device for media and entertainment across all age groups, with 33 percent of adults favoring it. However, a generational divide emerges when examining device preferences more closely, particularly among younger audiences.

Shifting preferences in the digital age

While television maintains its dominance overall, smartphones have become the go-to device for entertainment among 18-to-34-year-olds. This shift aligns with the broader trend of increasing digital media consumption in the United States. By 2025, Americans are expected to spend nearly eight hours per day engaging with digital media, reflecting a significant increase from the seven hours and 19 minutes recorded in 2022. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this trend, with many turning to streaming services and e-books during lockdowns.

Generational divide in screen time allocation

Age significantly influences how Americans allocate their entertainment screen time. While TV accounts for 40 percent of screen time for those over 35, it only represents 17 percent for Gen Z consumers. Instead, younger audiences dedicate more time to gaming, which occupies 23 percent of their entertainment screen time. This shift in preferences underscores the need for content providers to adapt to diverse audience behaviors across age groups.