Going online could have 'addictive quality'

More people are choosing to undertake activities such as turning on their computers and going online in their spare time, suggesting it could have an 'addictive quality'.

Figures from broadband regulator Ofcom suggest UK consumers pay among the cheapest prices in Europe for telecommunication services, which could be one reason for the rise in usage.

Richard Patterson, marketing director for Broadband-Expert.co.uk, said the UK's rapid take-up of new technology suggests many people eagerly anticipate the next development as faster speeds and next-generation technology can deliver services such as more efficient VoIP hardware.

He said: "I believe that the findings show that the UK population has been quick to adopt new technologies and has a love of gadgets."

Mr Patterson added that tax incentives could be introduced by the government to encourage more businesses to invest in the development of next-generation broadband networks.

More than 18 million UK households have had access to a broadband connection in 2009, according to figures from the Office for National Statistics.