Ireland has earned a solid reputation as a European tech hub, home to major multinational corporations and a thriving start-up scene. But beyond the macroeconomic figures, how does this digital momentum translate into the everyday lives of Irish citizens? Through internet use, smart devices, new forms of entertainment, and work opportunities, the population has developed a balanced and conscious relationship with technology. Still, challenges remain regarding the digital inclusion of vulnerable groups and the widespread adoption of new tools. This article explores recent trends and data to reveal how Ireland is navigating the digital revolution—through the eyes of its people.
The digital revolution in daily life
Today, internet use in Ireland is nearly universal: according to the latest Central Statistics Office survey, 93% of people over 16 had used the internet in the previous three months. This figure highlights how online access has become an essential part of Irish life—not just for communication, but also for managing households and public services.
Notably, the Internet of Things (IoT) is seeing increased adoption in Irish homes: 62% of households use at least one smart device (such as thermostats, lighting systems, or smart plugs), and nearly 30% rely on them to manage energy, heating, or security. The rise in smart home security use is striking: 30% of homes now have connected cameras or alarm systems, compared to 17% in 2022. Clearly, Irish people see technology as a way to enhance comfort and peace of mind.
Entertainment at home also reflects a shift toward innovation: 76% of households own a smart TV, and 37% have internet-connected gaming consoles. These devices are not only used for on-demand content but also provide access to interactive and social online experiences.
Gaming, industry, and user behavior
Online gaming has taken on a significant role in Ireland’s digital landscape—though not as an invitation to gambling. Around 50% of Irish adults engage in online gaming, primarily as a leisure activity: 35% say they do it to relax or support their mental well-being. This frequency is comparable to that of watching television, suggesting that gaming has become a mainstream form of entertainment.
From an economic standpoint, the gaming industry in Ireland exceeded €600 million in revenue in 2024, with projections pointing to €810 million by 2027, driven in part by the expansion of cloud gaming. On average, Irish gamers spend around €180 per year on game-related purchases, including titles, DLCs, and microtransactions.
In this competitive context, among the many platforms offering online gaming experiences is NetBet, often cited as an example of a digital portal that has adapted to Irish user preferences.
Work and education: digital skills take center stage
Ireland’s tech sector has become a key driver of employment growth. More than 2,200 tech start-ups employ around 55,000 people. Hiring in the field of artificial intelligence has grown by 383%, and 70% of companies have already integrated AI into their workflows.
To support this expansion, the Irish government has allocated €1.5 billion for digital education and skills development. Job opportunities are focused on cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure, data science, and software development—with salaries ranging from €31,700 to €150,000 per year, especially in Dublin’s “Silicon Docks.”
A recent survey of 300 IT managers showed that 95% of large companies are increasing investments in AI in 2025, while 93% are focused on cloud solutions. However, 96% report internal challenges, such as siloed organizational structures, that hinder digital strategies.
Inclusion and the digital divide
Despite Ireland’s strong digital progress, gaps remain—especially among older adults. A recent study on the digital divide revealed that many over-65s view computer use as an overwhelming barrier, likening it to not being able to read or write. To help bridge this gap, digital educators offer both in-person and online support to reduce anxiety around using modern tools.
Another study highlights older adults’ concerns about online safety. Many avoid using password managers or two-factor authentication and instead seek out practical guidance on privacy and how to protect themselves from scams.
Infrastructure and digital literacy
Ireland achieved a 95% internet penetration rate as early as 2022, and 70% of the population has basic digital skills—well above the EU average of 54%. Connectivity is strong too: 72% of homes have access to FTTP fiber-optic broadband, and 84% of the country is covered by 5G mobile networks.
That said, certain issues persist: public digital services—particularly in the healthcare sector—are still behind EU benchmarks, and additional investments are needed to address infrastructure gaps in rural areas.
