Older Generations More Likely to Use Voice Search, Suggesting a Solution to Generational Digital Divide

A study from The Manifest found 64 percent of voice technology users 55 and over use voice to search for information, products, and services online, compared to 63 percent of those 34 to 54 and 47 percent of users 18 to 34, reports ABC7 News . The implication is that voice search can make technology more accessible to older users. "The way we engage with most technology is tactile and visual," noted Speak 2 Software CEO Matt Smith. "These are challenges for someone losing their sight or motor skills. With voice technology, the user interface is now manageable and easy to adopt." Over 50 percent of people who use voice search use it at least once a week, suggesting that once they get used to the method, they are likely to repeat its use. Meanwhile, 30 percent of people 18 to 34 use voice technology to give commands, versus 19 percent of users 35 to 54 and 16 percent of those 55 and older. Experts believe more people will start using voice technology to tell their device to do something as the technology gets better.