Brits adapt to ‘virtual living’

As we enter the third week of lockdown, Brits are becoming increasingly inventive as they adapt to ‘virtual living.’ People have gone way beyond conference calls, keep fit sessions and online pub quizzes. Live meditation sessions, music concerts, group cooking sessions and even visits to the zoo are among some of the many activities now taking place online.

Hyperoptic, the UK’s largest Gigabit full fibre provider, commissioned a survey of 2,000 adults. The study found more than half of those polled feel they have adapted very well to living virtually and 44 per cent have used the internet for shared experiences since the Covid-19 crisis began. A third were pleased they can still enjoy the majority of their hobbies in a different way, such as going to the gym. More than a fifth of Brits are now exercising more than ever, with one in 10 taking part in live classes online.

Of the parents polled, more than two thirds have tried to maintain a normal school routine for their children, with many turning to the internet for help as they become teachers. A third have used live PE lessons online to help educate their child, while four in 10 have turned to YouTube for educational content. A fifth have even gone on virtual ‘day trips’ using real-time footage of places such as aquariums.

Charles Davies, MD ISP, Hyperoptic, said: “Living virtually is a big change for everyone of all ages, but it’s great to see Brits are maintaining a work life balance, continuing to take part in hobbies, trying new things and enjoying their social lives. We are committed to help people stay connected, at the time when they need it the most.  All aspects from school and work to dating and exercising have been affected but reliable connectivity allows people to still live their lives - just in a slightly different way.”  

The study also found that as a result of the lockdown, more than a third think they are communicating with others more than they did before, with three in 10 more encouraged to talk rather than text. One in eight are having calls with friends and family as often as every day, with a fifth using Facetime. Almost four in 10 are likely to send social media messages while almost a quarter opt for WhatsApp video.

It’s not just our communication with friends and family which has changed as a quarter have changed the way they talk to colleagues while working from home. More than half say they are sending more emails, while four in 10 have seen an increase in video conferencing and 37 per cent have experienced more group calls.

Top etiquette ‘rules’ for video conferencing were found to be limiting background noise, talking clearly and being on time. Similarly, more than half believe it’s polite to pay attention to others on camera, 47 per cent said everyone should look presentable and three in 10 think pets and children should be out of shot.