aAccording to the Macau Internet Project (MIP)'s recently released Macau Internet Usage Trends 2024 report, approximately 25% of Macau residents use generative artificial intelligence (AI) platforms such as ChatGPT.
Of these users, approximately 23% use the technology at least once a week.
“Since 2001, MIP has investigated the use and impact of the Internet and other ICTs among Macau residents,” the report said.
“For the past 24 years, large-scale random telephone surveys and special surveys have been conducted with data collected from a representative sample of Macau's population,” the report said.
“The annual survey results provide statistical data and trends in the development of Internet usage.”
“Nearly half of net users are positive about using generative AI in the future, and that percentage is higher than in 2023.Most net users believe that generative AI will improve learning and work efficiency. We look forward to it,” MIP said.
Generative AI can generate new text, images, code, and other data in response to simple prompts.
This offers Macau a variety of practical applications and potential technological opportunities, but the report warns that it should be approached with caution.
Distortion of facts is not uncommon and we need to learn how to evaluate the accuracy of the content produced.
The report further highlights that internet access in Macau is now equally available to all residents, with the majority accessing the internet via smartphones.
Internet penetration in 2023 is 93%, which has been consistent for the past five years.
Lack of knowledge and skills is cited as the main barrier preventing non-users from accessing online.
In terms of internet activity, 91% of the population uses social media, with WeChat being the most popular platform, followed by YouTube, Facebook, and WhatsApp.
Additionally, 84% of people use the internet to watch videos, 76% to listen to music, 54% play online games, and 36% listen to podcasts.
According to the report, 46% of Macau residents have experienced internet privacy and security issues, with internet fraud being the most common concern.
Additionally, 67% of residents shop online, with average monthly spending decreasing from MOP1,438 in 2023 to MOP1,383 in 2024.
MIP's report is based on a survey of more than 1,500 residents conducted in January. staff reporter
