Using mobile devices to access the internet is a growing trend that is effecting several demographics. According to a survey conducted by Pew Internet & American Life Project in March and April of this year, convenience is the driving factor behind the rise of mobile web use.

17% of cell phone owners do most of their online browsing on their phone, rather than a computer or other device. Most do so for convenience, but for some their phone is their only option for online access.

Some 88% of U.S. adults own a cell phone of some kind as of April 2012, and more than half of these cell owners (55%) use their phone to go online. … This represents a notable increase from the 31% of cell owners who said that they used their phone to go online as recently as April 2009.

More than 2,200 adults participated in the US-based survey. The survey also breaks results down into several demographics, including age, education and ethnicity. Convenience was the most common reason for being a “cell-mostly internet user” with 64% of the responses. Usage habit compatibly and filling access gaps were also mentioned at 18% and 10% respectively.

See the rest of the study at Pew Internet >>>

The number of people accessing the web from phone has clearly increased over the years and is certain to grow as smartphones continue to become more accessible and powerful, and as more companies embrace the mobile web as a need separate from traditional websites.