From desktop to mobile:
A look at the current usage figures

From desktop to mobile: a look at the current usage figures and target group differences

The shift from desktop to mobile devices is not a new trend, but has long been a reality. In recent years, the way people use the Internet has changed constantly. Today, smartphones are the main access point to the digital space for many people. But what are the current figures and what are the differences between the target groups?

Current status: Mobile vs. desktop

While desktop computers used to be the standard for accessing the Internet, smartphones have now taken over the top position. Most current studies show that Around 60-70% of web access is via mobile devices. Desktop use is around 25-35%. Tablets play a rather subordinate role with a share of 3-5%.

The trend varies depending on the industry and platform. Mobile use clearly dominates in e-commerce, social networks and entertainment offerings. However, the desktop often remains the preferred choice for B2B platforms and data-intensive applications.

Who uses what? Age differences and target groups

One interesting point is the view of the different age groups:

Younger target groups (16-34 years) clearly rely on the smartphone. Social media, online shopping, banking and streaming are predominantly done on the move. Desktop devices are now only used for specific tasks such as gaming or more complex work.

Middle age groups (35-54 years) show hybrid usage behavior. While the smartphone is used for quick access and private activities, the desktop remains relevant in the professional environment.

Older target groups (55+ years) continue to use desktops frequently, especially for online research, government portals or traditional e-mail correspondence. However, mobile devices are also becoming increasingly important in this age group.

For companies, this means

If you know your target group precisely, you can optimize content and access in a targeted manner – whether for mobile devices or classic desktop views.

What does this mean for websites?

The shift towards mobile use has a concrete impact on the design and conception of websites. A website must work on all end devices – from smartphones to desktop monitors. Loading times play a decisive role, especially on mobile devices. Slow pages quickly lead to high bounce rates. The content must also be adapted to the different screen sizes to ensure readability and user-friendliness.

Search engine optimization (SEO) has also adapted. Google now rates the mobile version of a website as the main version (“mobile-first indexing”).

Desktop remains – but different

Despite mobile growth, the desktop remains important in many areas. Complex applications, detailed research and data-intensive tasks will continue to be performed more frequently on a large screen.

Especially in the B2B sector and with professional tools, it is clear that the desktop is still justified. At the same time, mobile devices are expected to continue to grow as they become increasingly powerful and enable new applications.

Conclusion: A differentiated view is worthwhile

The switch from desktop to mobile has long been complete – but that doesn’t mean that the desktop is disappearing. Depending on the target group, platform and intended use, there are clear differences in device preference.

For companies and website operators, this means one thing above all: both worlds must be given equal consideration. A responsive, user-friendly design and an understanding of your target group are the key to a successful online presence.

Development will continue – and those who respond flexibly to the different needs of their users today will remain well positioned in the future.