This is just a sneak peek at the thousands of consumer insights available to CivicScience clients. Discover more data.
1. Gen Z adults lead the way in using social media to view political content ahead of the election.
With just over a month to go before the election, an influx of political content is inevitable as campaigns turn to social media platforms to reach voters. To what extent is it actually impacting how people use social media?
New CivicScience data reveal that fewer than 10% of social media users are avoiding the platforms altogether because of political content. In contrast, just over a quarter say they are either using social media more frequently to see political content or are maintaining their usual habits but appreciate seeing political posts. Nearly half report the election and its related content has no impact on their social media usage.
Thirty-seven percent of Gen Z adults aged 18-24, meanwhile, say they enjoy the uptick in political posts – including 22% who increase their social media usage during the election season. On the other end of the spectrum, nearly 1-in-3 Baby Boomers on social media say they are trying to avoid political content.
Want to uncover more trends among consumers as the election rapidly approaches? CivicScience’s ongoing and real-time tracking data found in the 2024 Election Mindset Tracker can help keep you ahead of the curve. Download a free preview here.
2. Americans increasingly emphasize price when purchasing a new phone, but typically wait until their phone breaks before upgrading.
It has been a noteworthy month for phone purchasing thanks to Apple’s recently released iPhone 16 model. When it comes to buying a new cell phone in general, CivicScience data show price is a clear leading motivator, with its importance rising steadily over the past three years. Consumers are less likely to consider the manufacturer or carrier.
Additionally, the majority of consumers report they typically wait to replace their smartphone until their current one breaks or stops working, while far fewer wait for upgrade eligibility or regularly buy a new phone every 1-2 years. A new model release is the least likely factor to influence their purchase.
Join the Conversation: How often do you upgrade your phone?
3. Growing interest in seasonal promotional events looks to give malls a boost this holiday season.
The calendar flip into October means consumer shopping trends garner extra attention as the holiday season nears – particularly as early data suggested fewer consumers got an August head start this year.
One such trend being monitored by CivicScience is mall shopping. Compared to the last two years, Americans are equally likely to shop for holiday gifts at malls this season. However, they’ve grown more likely to attend holiday promotional events at malls, a trend that has been on the rise since 2022.
Let us know: Do you enjoy shopping at the mall?
