Connected, but not equally
An estimated 6.3 billion people use the internet in 2026, according to ITU's release of 3 November. That is 76% of the global population. About two billion people remain offline.
The global average hides a large income divide: internet use reaches 93% in high-income countries and 32% in low-income countries.
Coverage is only part of access
ITU estimates that 97% of people live within reach of at least a 3G network. That does not mean everyone uses it. Affordability, connection quality and digital skills still matter.
The report revises earlier estimates. This graphic uses the 2026 release consistently, rather than mixing its figures with older editions.
