CES2024: For the First Time, Smartphone Ownership in the US Exceeds TV Ownership

The average number of connected devices per U.S. internet household reached 17 in Q3 2023, according to new data released by Parks Associates during CES2024. This indicates that consumers are connecting a record number of devices in their homes to the internet.

Park’s Consumer Electronics Dashboard, an ongoing service that visualizes the most important metrics for consumer electronics (CE) devices in the home, also found that for the first time, smartphone ownership surpassed TV ownership, with 90% of households reporting ownership of a smartphone compared to 88% with a TV. Additionally, the study discovered that 92% of US homes have wireless or fixed internet access.

According to Sarah Lee, Research Analyst at Parks Associates, “smartphones are now commonplace, and connected consumer electronics like wireless earbuds, tablets, and smart TVs are commonplace.” These days, entertainment and everyday personal communications—which can involve family, work, and school—require the use of these devices. This need fuels ongoing purchases because CE manufacturers release cutting-edge models each year that compel customers to upgrade.”

Parks discovered that among US households with internet access:

Video streaming is used by 89% of people.
66% of people own a smart TV.
Fourty-two percent own a smart home gadget.
One-third have a security system.
39% wear smart watches.

Additionally, the study discovered that consumer spending has demonstrated exceptional resilience. Consumers’ enthusiasm for consumer electronics products increased by the end of 2023, following a brief period of decline. Compared to 2022, purchase intentions for popular entertainment devices like gaming consoles, streaming media players, and VR headsets have increased and now approximate levels from 2021, the pandemic’s peak.

“Economic conditions and fear of a recession previously stalled purchases of CE categories,” Lee stated. “But higher intentions to purchase are likely a reflection of prolonged delayed gratification, the end-of-year holiday season, enticing retail promotions, and hope for continued economic improvement in 2024.”