Breaking news

European Union Embraces IoT: Widespread Adoption With Stark National Variances

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

European Union Embraces IoT: Widespread Adoption With Stark National Variances

A recent Eurostat report underscores the significant penetration of internet-connected, or ‘smart’, devices across the European Union in 2024, signaling a monumental shift in the landscape of consumer technology. With more than 70 per cent of the population actively engaging with these devices, the digital transformation is well underway.

Regional Discrepancies In Adoption Rates

The report highlights notable divergences among member states. The Netherlands tops the chart with an impressive 94.8 per cent penetration, followed by Ireland at 90.6 per cent and Denmark at 87.0 per cent. In stark contrast, adoption rates in Poland, Bulgaria, and Romania trail significantly at 46.1 per cent, 50.8 per cent, and 56.6 per cent respectively. Such disparities point to varying levels of technological integration and economic access within the bloc.

IoT Device Trends and Consumer Preferences

Of the myriad of devices, internet-connected televisions remain the most widely used, with 57.9 per cent of respondents reporting active engagement. Smart wearables, including smartwatches and fitness trackers, follow closely at 29.9 per cent, underscoring a growing consumer shift toward health and connectivity. Meanwhile, gaming consoles and home audio systems capture roughly one-fifth of the market, further illuminating the diverse preferences in digital consumption.

Emerging Smart Home & Automotive Connectivity

The evolution of home automation is also apparent. Although devices such as home energy management systems (14.2 per cent), smart appliances (12.8 per cent), and security systems (11.8 per cent) are less prevalent, their incremental adoption hints at future growth. Additionally, the integration of wireless connectivity in automobiles (10.5 per cent) and health-related IoT devices (7.9 per cent) illustrates the expanding scope of technology in everyday life.

As the European Union continues to embrace digital innovation, these trends not only enhance consumer convenience but also offer vital insights for businesses and policymakers. Addressing the existing regional imbalances will be key to harnessing the full economic and social potential of the IoT revolution.

Cyprus Expected Working Life Reaches 39.5 Years, Above EU Average

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

People in Cyprus are expected to spend 39.5 years in the workforce, around two years longer than the European Union average of 37.5 years, according to the latest Eurostat data for 2025.

The figure places Cyprus among the EU countries with the longest expected working lives.

Cyprus Ranks Above EU Average

Only a handful of member states recorded higher figures than Cyprus. The Netherlands topped the ranking at 44 years, followed by Sweden at 43.4 years, Denmark at 42.6 years, and Estonia at 41.5 years.

At the other end of the ranking were Romania with 32.7 years, Italy with 33.0 years, Bulgaria with 34.6 years and Greece with 35.3 years.

Gender Gap Remains Wider Than EU Average

Men in Cyprus are expected to remain in work for 42.1 years, compared with 36.7 years for women. The gap of 5.4 years exceeds the EU average gender gap of 4.1 years.

Across the bloc, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia were the only countries where women were expected to spend longer in employment than men. Finland recorded the smallest positive gender gap at 0.7 years.

Italy posted the widest gap at 8.9 years, followed by Romania at 6.9 years, Greece at 6.7 years and Malta at 6.3 years.

Working Lives Continue To Lengthen

Between 2016 and 2025, expected working life in Cyprus increased by 3.5 years, placing the country among the strongest performers in the EU over the period. Men’s expected working life rose by 3.3 years, while women’s increased by 3.6 years.

Across the EU, every member state recorded an increase. Malta posted the largest gain at 4.9 years, followed by Hungary and Ireland at 4.2 years each, and the Netherlands at 4.1 years.

Malta’s increase was driven largely by women, whose expected working life rose by 7.8 years, the biggest increase recorded across the bloc.

By comparison, Romania, Spain, Italy, Germany and Austria recorded gains of two years or less over the same period.

Women’s Working Lives Increase Faster Across Europe

Women’s expected working life increased faster than men’s in most EU countries. Denmark, Romania, Sweden and Greece were the main exceptions.

In Cyprus, gains for men and women were broadly similar, alongside Bulgaria, Belgium and Slovenia.

eCredo
Aretilaw firm
The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties
Uol

Become a Speaker

Become a Speaker

Become a Partner

Subscribe for our weekly newsletter