How Do You Consume News in 2025?
In 2025, how people keep up with the news looks very different from just a few years ago. From scrolling through TikTok to tuning into TV bulletins, the way we access information now depends heavily on age and digital habits. With that in mind, let’s explore the various ways people are consuming news in 2025.
News Aggregator Apps and Specialised Platforms
News aggregator apps have gained popularity across various age groups, providing personalised news feeds that cater to individual interests. These apps compile articles from multiple sources, allowing users to stay informed on a wide range of topics within a single platform.
The RugbyPass app is one example of a specialised platform serving niche audiences, offering rugby fans live matches, news, and expert analysis. It shows how tailored content can engage specific communities by meeting their unique interests.
Social Media Platforms
Social media remains a key news source for younger audiences, especially those aged 16 to 24. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat offer visually engaging, bite-sized, tailored content that fits their consumption habits. Many in this age group also rely on influencers and celebrities for news, blending entertainment with information.
News sharing features allow users to receive instant updates on stories that they’re interested in and be the first to hear about breaking news. This immediacy is what makes social media such a powerful and popular tool. Unlike traditional outlets, news can be captured and shared within minutes, or even seconds.
With more and more journalists and news outlets making social platforms their primary source, social media has become the go-to place for information. It’s not just instant access to the latest news that attracts younger audiences to social media, but the interactivity of it, too.
Social media makes it easy for people to voice their opinions and discuss current news as it happens, increasing people’s interest and engagement levels. Despite the many advantages of social media for news coverage, it does come with its downsides. Particularly when it comes to incorrect, misleading, or altered media.
Podcasts and Audio Content
Podcasts have solidified their position as a significant news medium, appealing to listeners who prefer audio content that can be consumed on-the-go. The convenience of listening to a news story whilst going about their day to day chores or travelling to work means keeping up with the news is easier than ever before. This format has seen widespread adoption among various age groups, particularly because of the in-depth discussion and analyses that podcasts offer.
If you’re new to a certain topic or simply want further information and context surrounding a news story, listening to a podcast is one of the fastest and easiest ways to achieve this. Alongside this, engaging and informative podcasts can make you feel as if you are present in the conversation, catering to those seeking a more immersive news experience.
Smart Devices and Wearable Technology
Smart watches and wearable devices are incredibly popular and make communicating with loved ones, monitoring various health metrics, setting reminders, and more, effortless. But these wearable devices have also provided users with another avenue to access the latest news stories. Now, people can receive instant updates and breaking news all from a quick glance at their wrist.
Additionally, smart devices like Alexa and Google Assistant allow people to stay informed without breaking off from their daily activities. Users can simply ask for updates and instantly receive the latest on relevant news stories.
Traditional News Outlets and Digital Adaptation
Traditional news sources like TV and print have declined but remain relevant among over-50s, who value their depth and credibility. To reach younger audiences, many outlets are embracing digital transformation.
The BBC, for instance, has created a department focused on growth, innovation, and AI to deliver more personalised content for users who access news via smartphones and social media.
Generational Media Consumption Patterns
According to research, Gen Z in the UK relies heavily on digital platforms for news, with over a third of 18–24-year-olds using social media as their primary source. In contrast, older generations continue to favour traditional formats.
Those aged 65+ watch over five hours of broadcast TV daily, including televised news, showing a slower shift towards digital platforms while retaining long-standing habits.
Conclusion
In 2025, the way we consume news is more varied than ever before. From traditional broadcasts to personalised apps, people have a range of platforms to choose from that allow them to access news in a way that suits their habits and lifestyles. The younger generation is typically favouring social media, influencers, and personalised apps that offer immediate access to tailored content and provide the opportunity to share and discuss events in real time.
In contrast, the older generations are still reliant on TV and print to follow their favourite stories and keep up to date with the latest news. It’s unlikely that traditional news outlets will die out completely any time soon. However, there has been a decline in use and popularity over the years. As news continues to adapt to the ever changing digital world and new generations continue to favour digital media, it’s possible that traditional outlets could one day cease to exist.
