Email could be 'unfamiliar' within a decade

Various forms of instant messaging and social networks could grow in popularity over the next decade to the point where email becomes much less familiar, according to a new study.

Research from the University of Kent and TalkTalk suggests that only half of young, tech-savvy Britons use email on a regular basis, with communication such as instant messaging services potentially growing more popular in the coming years.

Not everyone agrees, however, and Mickael Remond, chief executive officer of communications company ProcessOne, said he believes email will remain an integral part of business for many years.

Mr Remond said: "Email will continue to be an important business tool for many organisations, as it enables them to reach a number of people across a number of locations in a targeted and methodical way."

Communications tools such as VoIP hardware can help businesses and private users talk to friends and colleagues cheaply or even free of charge.

Email is most commonly used by people aged 65 and over, according to the University of Kent and TalkTalk.