ITU: Global Online Population Grew by Over 240M in 2025

Emma Okonji

A recent report released by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), tagged: ‘Facts and Figures 2025’, showed that the world’s online population grew by more than 240 million people in 2025, which according to ITU, represents steady progress in global connectivity.
ITU, which is the United Nations agency that sets global ICT standards, however said the rise in global internet users did not reflect closed gaps in quality and affordability, as disparities still deepen key digital divides.

According to ITU, the estimates confirm continuing progress in expanding digital connectivity, while pointing to differences in quality that impact how users benefit from internet use.

“Globally, an estimated 6 billion people, about three-quarters of the world’s population are using the internet in 2025, up from a revised estimate of 5.8 billion in 2024. However, 2.2 billion people remain offline, down from a revised estimate of 2.3 billion in 2024,” the report said.

Overall, the report’s findings underline the importance of digital infrastructure, affordable services and skills training to ensure that everyone can truly benefit from advancing technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Giving further details about the internet connectivity report, ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin, said: “In a world where digital technologies are essential to so much of daily life, everyone should have the opportunity to benefit from being online. The report highlights how today’s digital divides are being defined by speed, reliability, affordability, and skills, all of which we must prioritise as we work toward our mission of universal connectivity.”

ITU’s Telecommunication Development Bureau Director, Cosmas Luckyson Zavazava, said: “Reliable data are the foundation of effective digital policies and of our shared vision to connect the world. Achieving that vision will require sustained and well-targeted efforts – in infrastructure, in digital skills, and in data systems. By working together and directing resources where the needs are greatest, we can ensure that no one is left behind and that everyone benefits fully and safely from the opportunities of the digital age.”