The Internet has lost its novelty use for many American users, but is turning into an increasingly important tool for everyday living, according to a study released Sunday.
As Internet users gained more online experience, the reported a slight dip in the length of the average online session – from 90 minutes to 83 minutes over the course of one year, the Pew Internet and American Life Project found.
But experienced users said they were more likely to use that time for activities like working from home, checking bank account balances and making travel reservations, rather than simply browsing.
E-mail also has lost its novelty, the survey found, as users said they sent messages to friends and relatives less often.
But users are more likely to rely on the medium to express worries, ask for advice or send other serious messages.