Internet usage in Bangladesh has continued to rise steadily in recent years, with individual-level internet use increasing from 44.5 percent in 2023 to 48.9 percent in 2025, according to the latest ICT Access and Use Survey 2025–26 released by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS).
The survey highlights broader access to technology at the household level. Nearly all households, 98.9 percent, own at least one mobile phone, while 72.4 percent now have a smartphone. Television access stands at 58.9 percent, radio ownership has declined sharply to 15.1 percent, and only 9.1 percent of households own a computer. Electricity access is almost universal, covering 98.9 percent of homes.
The data reveals a clear urban-rural divide. Smartphone ownership is significantly higher in urban areas, where 80.8 percent of households have at least one device, compared with 68.8 percent in rural regions. By the end of September 2025, 48.9 percent of people aged five and above were active internet users.
At the household level, 56.2 percent of homes had at least one internet user during the July–September period. Mobile phone usage is widespread, with 80.6 percent of individuals using a phone, though only 56.5 percent own their own handset.
While overall usage between men and women is relatively balanced, gaps remain in ownership and access. Around 63.2 percent of men own a mobile phone compared with 52.8 percent of women. Internet usage follows a similar trend, with 51.2 percent of men online versus 46.3 percent of women.
The BBS survey covered 61,632 households nationwide and aims to inform national ICT policy and international reporting frameworks, including the International Telecommunication Union and the Sustainable Development Goals. It also underscores the growing role of digital services in education, healthcare, finance, and access to government support.
