J.D. Power: GenZ’ers Use Phones More, Have More Network Problems

TROY–While younger wireless customers typically have higher phone usage than older customers, they also experience more network problems, according to the recently released J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Wireless Network Quality Performance Study Volume 1.

Specifically, the study found that Gen Z customers use their phones more than 300 minutes per day on average, while Pre-Boomers use their phones an average of 58 minutes per day. Problems per 100 uses (PP100) among Pre-Boomers and Boomers average 5 PP100 and 7 PP100, respectively, while Gen X (10 PP100), Gen Y (12 PP100) and Gen Z (15 PP100) have noticeably more problems.

“Younger generations, particularly Gen Z, are very demanding of their wireless networks,” said Carl Lepper, senior director of technology, media and telecom at J.D. Power. “Not only do they heavily rely on their devices, but they also stream and game at higher rates than older generations and have less tolerance for data-related issues. As wireless users get younger, network speed and reliability must remain at the forefront for providers to retain and attract customers.”

Study Rankings

AT&T and Verizon Wireless rank highest in a tie in the Mid-Atlantic and North Central regions, each with 9 PP100.

Verizon Wireless ranks highest in the Northeast region with 8 PP100.

T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless rank highest in a tie in the Southeast region, each with 9 PP100.

Verizon Wireless ranks highest in the Southwest region with 10 PP100 and ranks highest in the West region with 10 PP100.

See the rankings for each region at http://www.jdpower.com/pr-id/2024002.

The 2024 U.S. Wireless Network Quality Performance Study—Volume 1 is based on responses from 26,725 wireless customers. Carrier performance is examined in six regions: Mid-Atlantic, North Central, Northeast, Southeast, Southwest and West. In addition to evaluating the network quality experienced by customers with wireless phones, the study also measures the network performance of tablets and mobile broadband devices. The study was fielded from July through December 2023.

For more information about the U.S. Wireless Network Quality Performance Study, visit https://www.jdpower.com/business/resource/jd-power-wireless-network-quality-performance-study.