A new Zpryme study, conducted from April 4-7, 2020 finds that 16%, around 41 million, U.S. adults used online/mobile video conference or chat applications for the first time while being on shelter-in-place orders due to the covid-19 outbreak. As Americans adhere to social distancing guidelines and adjust to being in their homes the majority of the time, Zpryme conducted a survey to assess how the outbreak is prompting new uses of technology for Americans, who have not used virtual technologies such as streaming video, online chat, or curbside delivery. Respondents were able to choose more than one option.

16% of respondents reported they used online or mobile video conference or chat for the first time as a result of the covid-19 outbreak. 13% said they used online shopping and curbside delivery for the first time. An equal amount (12%) said they used online order and delivery from restaurants and streaming services such as Hulu and Netflix for the first time, while 8% said they used online grocery shopping with home delivery. Only 5% indicated using online fitness classes for the first time.

Trends by Region

Respondents in the Northeast (22.3%) were more likely to use online or mobile video conferencing or video for the first time compared to those who located in the Mid-West (15%), West (17%), or South (14%).

Respondents in the Northeast (14%) were more likely to use online grocery shopping with home delivery for the first time compared to those who located in the Mid-West (6%), West (7%), or South (8%).

Trends by Age

Compared to other age groups, respondents age 18-24 (13%) were most likely to use streaming services such as Hulu or Netflix for the first time.

Compared to other age groups, respondents age 25-34 (23%) were most likely to use online or mobile video conferencing or video for the first time.

Compared to other age groups, respondents age 64+ (16%) were most likely to use online shopping with curbside pickup for the first time.

Trends by Gender

Females (19%) were more likely than males (14%) to use online or mobile video conferencing or video for the first time.