Smartphone Usage In Australia: Trends And Insights

how many people use a smartphone in australia

Australia has one of the highest smartphone adoption rates in the world, with approximately 88% of the population owning a smartphone. This equates to around 23.6 million people. Smartphone usage in Australia is high, with many people using their devices for social media, messaging, gaming, and health tracking. The rise of 5G networks and advancements in mobile technology has further integrated smartphones into Australians' daily lives. Apple is the market leader in Australia, with a 58.42-60.9% market share, while Samsung holds around a quarter of the market.

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Smartphone penetration rate: 87% in 2026

Australia has one of the highest smartphone adoption rates in the world, with approximately 88% of its population owning a smartphone. This number is projected to increase to 87% by 2026, representing just over 23.6 million smartphone users across the country. This increase in smartphone penetration can be attributed to several factors, including the upcoming 2G network shutdown, which will force many mobile owners to switch to smartphones, and the continued advancements in mobile technology, such as the rollout of 5G networks.

In 2017, 81% of Australians used a smartphone, and this number has been steadily growing. The high ownership rates in Australia are influenced by various factors, including scale manufacturing practices, socio-economic factors, and technological advancements. Australians use their smartphones for a wide range of tasks, including social media, messaging apps, digital payments, health tracking, gaming, and social networking. The integration of smartphones into daily life is deep-rooted, with many individuals expressing increased stress and anxiety when they are unable to use their devices.

Apple is the market leader in Australia, with around 60.9% of smartphones running iOS. This dominance is further emphasised by the brand's market share, which stands at 58.42%, a significant gap ahead of Samsung's 27%. The impact of smartphones extends beyond individuals, as they have transformed the way businesses operate, particularly in the eCommerce sector. With mobile devices becoming increasingly lightweight, portable, and interconnected, they facilitate constant reachability and enhance operational efficiency for businesses.

Smartphones have become an integral part of Australians' lives, fostering a sense of security and connection. However, there are concerns about over-reliance on these devices, especially among young people. The average daily screen time is high, with Gen Z spending approximately 7.3 hours a day on their phones, and one-third of Aussies sleeping with their phones in bed. Problematic mobile phone use has been linked to handheld and hands-free usage while driving, highlighting the need for mindful device engagement.

As the smartphone penetration rate in Australia nears 87% by 2026, it is important to acknowledge both the benefits and challenges associated with the widespread adoption of these devices. While smartphones offer enhanced connectivity, convenience, and access to advanced features, addressing issues of over-reliance, security breaches, and their impact on mental health is crucial to ensure a healthy relationship with this technology.

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Apple leads the market: 60.9% of smartphones are Apple

Australia has a high smartphone penetration rate, with approximately 88% of its population owning a smartphone. This equates to around 23.6 million smartphone users across the country. Australians use their smartphones for a variety of tasks, including social media, messaging apps, digital payments, gaming, and social networking. The country is at the forefront of advancing mobile technologies, with 5G networks and advancements in hardware rapidly transforming the capabilities of smartphones.

Apple leads the market in Australia, with 60.9% of smartphones running iOS. Apple has maintained its dominant position even during the COVID-19 pandemic, which negatively impacted smartphone sales. The latest iPhone 15 models are the most popular iPhones for the general public, with the iPhone 15 Pro Max offering the most power. Apple's market share in Australia stands at 58.42%, significantly ahead of Samsung, which holds 27%.

The popularity of Apple iPhones in Australia can be attributed to various factors. Firstly, Apple has a strong brand presence and is known for its innovative, user-friendly products. Australians also value the advanced features that iPhones offer, such as mobile email, internet connectivity, and powerful hardware for gaming and other tasks. The integration of 5G further enhances the appeal of iPhones, providing faster speeds and improved connectivity.

Apple's iOS operating system also plays a significant role in its market leadership. iOS is known for its stability, security, and seamless integration with other Apple devices. Many Australians likely appreciate the ecosystem that iOS devices create, allowing for easy synchronization and data sharing between their iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices.

Looking at consumer behaviour, it's evident that Australians value the convenience and connectivity that smartphones provide. With 80% of Australians feeling secure when they have their phone on them, it's clear that smartphones have become an essential part of daily life. While there are concerns about over-reliance on mobile phones, particularly among young people, the demand for smartphones and advanced features continues to grow.

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32% of users feel mobile devices increase stress and anxiety

In 2017, 81% of Australians used a smartphone, with the number expected to reach 87% by 2026, or 23.6 million people. This high smartphone penetration rate means that mobile devices are deeply integrated into people's lives in Australia. While smartphones offer many benefits, there is growing concern about their impact on mental health.

Indeed, 32% of smartphone users in Australia feel that mobile devices increase their stress and anxiety. This is supported by various studies, which have found a link between excessive smartphone use and poor mental health outcomes, including increased stress and anxiety. For instance, individuals who experience a fear of missing out tend to overuse their phones and exhibit higher levels of anxiety and depression. Smartphone overuse can also lead to psychological dependency, with separation from the device causing anxiety.

Furthermore, the constant use of smartphones can interfere with social activities, impacting relationships and causing a strain on social connections. This is especially true for young people, who may struggle to manage their smartphone use due to the underdeveloped prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for decision-making and impulse control. As a result, they may exhibit addictive-like behaviours and become overly dependent on their devices.

To address these concerns, experts recommend setting boundaries for digital device use, such as establishing \"sundown times\" for smartphone use among teens. By regulating the amount of time spent on smartphones, individuals can maintain their psychological well-being and reduce the potentially harmful effects of excessive screen time.

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80% of Australians feel secure when they have their phone

Smartphones have become an integral part of our lives, and this is especially true in Australia. In 2017, 81% of Australians used a smartphone, and this figure is expected to increase to around 87% by 2026, translating to over 23.6 million smartphone users across the country. This high smartphone penetration rate has had a profound impact on various aspects of Australian life, from social connections to business operations.

It is within this context that 80% of Australians report feeling secure when they have their phones with them. This sense of security is not unfounded, as smartphones offer a multitude of safety features. For example, they can be used to make emergency calls, provide access to safety apps, and allow users to stay connected with loved ones. Additionally, smartphones enable users to access safety-related information quickly and conveniently, such as checking weather alerts or finding directions in unfamiliar areas.

The COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted the role of smartphones in providing a sense of security. During lockdowns and periods of isolation, smartphones became a vital link to the outside world, allowing people to connect with loved ones, access essential services, and stay informed about the latest developments. The ability to video call family and friends when in-person interactions were restricted helped maintain social connections and provided emotional support during challenging times.

However, it is important to acknowledge the potential drawbacks of smartphone usage, particularly regarding privacy and security. While smartphones can enhance security, they also introduce risks such as data breaches and identity theft. This is especially concerning for young people, who may not fully understand the implications of their online activities. A study conducted in regional New South Wales high schools found that students' phones were leaking sensitive information due to default settings, putting them at risk of exposing their identities and locations.

Despite these concerns, the prevalence of smartphone usage in Australia is undeniable, and the feeling of security that they provide to 80% of Australians cannot be ignored. As technology advances and smartphones become even more integrated into our daily lives, it is likely that this sense of security will only become more profound. However, it is crucial to address the potential risks and ensure that users, especially the younger generation, are educated about protecting their privacy and security while enjoying the benefits of their devices.

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46% of children aged 6-13 used a mobile phone in 2020

According to a report by ACMA, 46% of Australian children aged 6-13 used a mobile phone in 2020. This is a 5% increase from 2015, when 41% of children in the same age group used a mobile phone.

The report also found that in 2020, 1 in 3 children (33%) aged 6-13 owned the mobile phone they use, which has remained unchanged for the last few years. Playing games, taking photos/videos, and using apps were the most common activities on mobile phones by kids in the 12 months leading up to June 2020. Communicating via text messages and calling parents/family were also common uses of mobile phones among children.

The use of mobile phones among children in Australia has been steadily increasing over the years, with more children using their devices to communicate with family and friends. This trend is likely to continue, as smartphones become increasingly integrated into our daily lives.

It is worth noting that smartphone penetration in Australia is already high, with 81% of the population using a smartphone in 2017, and an estimated 87% by 2026. This equates to approximately 23.6 million smartphone users across the country.

Frequently asked questions

As of 2025, about 88% of Australians own a smartphone. This equates to approximately 23.6 million people.

As of 2020, 46% of Australian children aged 6-13 used a mobile phone. By 2025, this number had risen to 68% of children aged 3-17.

Australians use their smartphones for a variety of tasks, including social media, messaging, taking photos, digital payments, checking news and weather, tracking health and fitness, gaming, and watching TV and movies.

On average, Australians use their smartphones for three hours every day. 53% of smartphone users connect to the internet more than five times a day, and 20% connect more than 15 times a day. One-third of Australians sleep with their phones in bed, and 25% check their phones within 10 minutes of waking up.

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