Teens’ Online Lives Revealed: Surprising Trends and Insights

Teens are deeply embedded in online life, with many using social media platforms almost constantly. According to a Pew Research Center survey of 1,458 U.S. teens aged 13-17, nearly all (97%) use the internet daily. YouTube stands out as a platform widely used by nearly all teens, while TikTok and Instagram are also popular among the younger generation.

Chatbots like ChatGPT and Character.ai have gained popularity, with about two-thirds of teens reporting use. Among them, 16% report using chatbots several times a day or almost constantly. The survey highlights racial and ethnic differences in AI chatbot use, with Black and Hispanic teens being more likely to use certain platforms.

The study also reveals that older teens are more likely to use the internet almost constantly than younger teens. Additionally, those living in households earning less than $75,000 annually are more likely to say they use the internet almost constantly.

Overall, the survey paints a picture of a complex online landscape where social media, chatbots, and internet use intersect in various ways. As teens navigate their online lives, it’s essential to understand these trends and insights to better support their digital well-being.

Source: https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2025/12/09/teens-social-media-and-ai-chatbots-2025