In a recent study presented to socialbites.ca, data from Yandex 360 and the NAFI Analytical Center show that Russians over 45 remain more optimistic about internet technologies than their younger counterparts and display greater interest in online services overall. The findings highlight a notable generational split in attitudes toward digital life, with older users embracing online tools as a path to enhanced living and convenience, while younger users also engage deeply but in different ways.
Specifically, about 75% of individuals aged 45 to 55 believe that internet services improve their quality of life. By contrast, 55% of respondents aged 18 to 24 share this view. This suggests that while both groups see value in digital offerings, older adults may prioritize practical improvements in daily routines, whereas younger people may weigh other factors such as speed, novelty, and social connectivity when evaluating online services.
When it comes to comfort with new technologies, the data show that the older generation is less prone to fear compared with younger cohorts. Approximately 70% of those aged 45 to 55 and 74% of those aged 55 to 60 express fewer concerns about adopting new digital tools. Among students, the sentiment is more cautious, with about 57% showing this level of confidence. This pattern indicates a steady trust in digital adoption as people move through different life stages, even as younger populations explore emerging options with curiosity and caution alike.
Interest in innovative services also varies by age. About 74% of respondents over 24 express interest in new online offerings, compared with roughly 50% of the younger group. That gap points to distinct priorities: older users often seek practical enhancements and reliability, while younger users may test and compare a broader spectrum of services before committing long term.
Usage habits reflect these attitudes. More than 90% of people over 50 regularly use instant messaging, and 89% routinely watch videos on hosting platforms. Those approaching retirement age are also actively engaged in gaming, with participation exceeding 60%. Younger Russians show a higher propensity to use cloud storage solutions, signaling a trend toward digital resilience and data portability that resonates across generations and markets such as Canada and the United States where similar patterns emerge in cross-border digital life.
There is also a note of caution among Russian users regarding paying for goods via QR codes, underscoring the importance of secure payment practices and clear consumer guidance across all age groups and regions, including North American markets where QR-based transactions are increasingly common and require vigilance against potential risks.