The Virus Changed the Way We Internet

COVID-19 has impacted lives across the globe and people are spending a lot of their time at home. With no movie theaters, bars, and lively restaurants open, many Americans are finding other ways to deal with this time of uncertainty. In an article written by Ella Koeze and Nathaniel Popper of the New York Times, analysts say our behavior in the United States has shifted to more internet usage for work, play, and communicating on social media. The average daily traffic for social media and entertainment leaders Facebook, Netflix, and YouTube have seen sharp rises since stay at home orders were implemented.

Many Americans are taking this time to focus more on their computer screens rather than being on mobile devices for hours at a time. With social distancing guidelines in place across the country, it is important for the American people to still connect with loved ones. The New York Times says, “we are seeking out new ways to connect, mostly through video chat.” Instead of messaging a friend or family member on their cellphone, more people are shifting to apps like Google’s Duo or Houseparty, where people can play games with one another. To pass the time, news websites have also seen a growth in traffic by more than 50 percent over the last month.

With many people working and going to school from home, apps like Zoom have created a platform for life to continue. A parent whose child started school on Zoom said, “her children definitely miss lunch, school activities and seeing friends and teachers at school.” Many kids across the country are feeling the same way, but during this time many Americans are adapting well to the new circumstances.

Many important business meetings have been conducted on apps like Zoom. Zoom has been under scrutiny lately. In an article on Bloomberg, Peter Blumberg noted that, “Zoom Video Communications was accused by a shareholder of hiding flaws in its video conferencing app, part of  a growing backlash against security loopholes that were laid bare after an explosion in worldwide usage.” Worldwide usage will continue and the internet will continue to be a useful tool.

The Virus Changed the Way We Internet