Latvians and Finnish use the most mobile data

Mobile data has become an essential part of daily life for many people worldwide. With smartphones and other web-enabled devices, we now have constant access to information, entertainment, and communication at our fingertips. Recently, mobile data usage has risen as people consume more high-bandwidth content.

According to the data presented by the Atlas VPN team, Latvians and Finnish people use up the most mobile data per month among the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries. In addition, each Estonian has about 2 mobile broadband subscriptions.

The data is based on OECD statistics from 2022. OECD is an intergovernmental organization with 38 Member countries, founded in 1961. It collects data and provides analysis on a wide range of topics to help stimulate economic progress and world trade.

Latvians lead in mobile data usage, averaging nearly 42 gigabytes per month per mobile broadband subscription. Latvia's high mobile data consumption may be driven by widespread access to high-speed mobile networks in urban areas and unlimited provider data plans.

Finland ranks second globally in monthly mobile data use, with citizens browsing away 41 gigabytes on average. Finland's advanced telecommunications infrastructure and tech-savvy culture appear to contribute to the high usage. Unlimited data plans are common, and Finns are early adopters of new devices and digital services.

Austria has the third-highest rate of mobile data consumption, averaging around 30 gigabytes per month. Lithuanians also rank high in mobile data usage, browsing through 28 gigabytes monthly on average. Iceland demonstrates high mobile data consumption for its population as well, with citizens using 24 gigabytes per month on average.

The top 10 is strictly dominated by European countries, except for the Chile standout. Chileans use nearly 19 gigabytes per month. The average mobile data usage among OECD countries is almost 9 gigabytes. Countries like the United States, UK, and Germany all fall below this average.

Who is most connected?

Analyzing the volume of mobile data consumption reveals fascinating insights. However, looking at mobile broadband subscription rates per 100 inhabitants provides further knowledge on how much people browse. Results show that many consumers in these countries have multiple connected devices beyond just one smartphone.

Each Estonian has about 2 mobile broadband subscriptions. Estonia's citizens extensively use mobile networks not just for smartphones but also for other internet-connected devices. Estonia has a 96% internet penetration rate, enabling widespread adoption of mobile technology.

Japan likewise has extremely high mobile broadband penetration, with citizens subscribed to nearly 2 mobile networks on average. Japan was an early leader in mobile technology innovation, driving rapid adoption. Japanese consumers frequently own multiple connected gadgets beyond just smartphones.

The United States ranks third, with an average of 1.8 mobile broadband subscriptions per citizen. The US-led early mass adoption of smartphones and tablets and has competitive telecom markets that enable consumers to purchase connections across providers and devices.

Finland, which is second in mobile data consumption, has a broadband subscription rate of 1.6 per person. At the same time, Israel and Denmark demonstrate a rate of 1.4 mobile broadband subscriptions per citizen.

Mobile connectivity is convenient, but it can lead to overuse and dependency. Moderation and balance are essential. As networks continue improving globally, average mobile usage rates will likely rise. The future will undoubtedly bring innovations integrating mobile technology even deeper into our lifestyles.