The use of artificial intelligence tools has noticeably increased across Germany. According to the latest media study conducted by ARD and ZDF, 59 percent of Germans now use these technologies at least occasionally.
The study highlights a significant age divide in adoption: while 92 percent of individuals aged 14 to 29 utilize AI tools, only 15 percent of those over 70 do. Nevertheless, a majority of users, 54 percent, approach the results generated by AI tools with skepticism, primarily viewing them as instruments whose outcomes must be verified. Furthermore, 81 percent of users consider source citations essential, although 43 percent believe that AI tools provide transparent source documentation.
Regarding streaming services, the typically rapid growth of the diverse and competitive platform market is now entering a phase of stabilization and differentiation. YouTube maintains its leading position in video streaming platforms, reaching 71 percent of the population aged 14 and older. Meanwhile, the public broadcasting streaming networks, according to the study commissioned by ARD and ZDF this year, reach 56 and 51 percent of the population, respectively. Netflix and Amazon Prime Video achieve almost identical total reaches.
Spotify remains the most used provider for audio and music streaming, capturing 44 percent of the population, while YouTube Music reaches 30 percent.
Other findings from the 2026 media study indicate that media consumption habits are shifting only slightly from linear to non-linear offerings this year. Individuals who are younger already primarily stream, but non-linear usage is increasing in importance compared to the previous year, even as it declines with advancing age.
