“Sowing a Digital Future” Session at the 17th Aotec Trade Fair
22% of Internet users in rural areas work remotely
As part of the session dedicated to entrepreneurs and future professionals in the sector, Laura Díaz Bettarel, Director of Communication and Marketing at Asteo, presented the latest data from the Observatory that the company launched in 2022 to investigate connectivity habits in areas with fewer than 10,000 and 1,000 residents that do have connectivity.
One of the main conclusions of the study “X-ray of the Internet User in Rural Areas” reveals that, on average, connected households have 5.5 devices, a significant figure indicating an intense adoption of technology in those rural households with Internet access. Among the most used devices are mobile phones, laptops, Smart TVs, tablets, and desktop PCs, reflecting usage patterns similar to more densely populated areas.
The data from the presented study highlights the growing importance of remote work in rural areas. 22% of the workers surveyed stated that they worked remotely. This percentage increases when considering only municipalities with fewer than 1,000 residents (26%). Of these, 36% work remotely daily and 14% four days a week. These data underscore the impact of Internet access on people’s ability to work from home, providing a new dimension to professional life in rural communities.
Another relevant aspect is the migratory flow towards these areas. According to the study, 63% of those surveyed have moved to rural municipalities in the last three years, with 40% of them coming from larger urban areas. This trend suggests an interest in living in rural environments, possibly motivated by the search for a higher quality of life and flexible job opportunities.
These data are especially significant given that, according to the survey, six out of ten people would not consider buying or renting a house in a rural municipality if it did not have Internet access. This highlights the importance of connectivity as a determining factor in housing decisions and emphasizes the need to continue expanding network infrastructure in rural areas.
In summary, the results of the Asteo Observatory highlight the fundamental role of connectivity in daily life, work, and attracting population to rural areas. These findings provide a solid foundation for future initiatives aimed at improving network infrastructure and promoting sustainable development in rural communities.
