Our options for consuming TV content have changed dramatically in recent years. What does Gen Z – people aged 13 to 24 – around the world think of the viewing experience today?

We recently delved into our data about Gen Z and TV. Here’s what we learned:

TV is a fundamental part of Gen Z’s lives. Two-thirds (67%) say TV is a part of their daily lives and 69% feel it’s an important source of their entertainment. Most (80%) are excited by all the options available for watching TV today.

Their media diet includes a variety of devices. Smartphones (90%) and computers (84%) are the devices people 13 to 24 are most likely to report using regularly. Others include video game consoles (62%), smart TVs (59%), tablets (51%), regular TVs (38%), streaming media players (30%), and virtual reality headsets (15%).

But they think of “TV” as content – not the devices or platforms they use to get their shows and movies. When we asked 13- to 24-year-olds how they define “TV,” the top response was “TV shows and movies” (61%). In fact, they associate TV with content to such a degree that for 79%, the device and service don’t matter as long as they can access the content they want.

Gen Z loves having a wide variety of content to choose from, but they would prefer a more seamless viewing experience. Gen Z uses TV to reduce stress; 65% say they find comfort in TV. However, the viewing experience can be overwhelming, with two-thirds (66%) feeling it’s difficult to keep up with all the great TV shows coming out. More simplicity and better navigation would help – 81% wish they could access all their TV content through one service and 79% would like an easier way to find the TV shows and movies they love.  

While TV has changed, it continues to be a source of relaxation, new perspectives, and togetherness. TV provides an opportunity to indulge, with 67% of Gen Z saying they never miss an episode of their favorite shows. TV opens their minds – not only do 72% report that they’re watching more shows from other countries than a few years ago, TV also raises the visibility of stories that had previously never been told. In the end, TV brings people together. It’s a conversation starter, a cozy alternative to going out, and a source of new traditions. Three-quarters of people 13 to 24 believe that TV is great at bringing their family together for something they all can enjoy.