Asians most technology savvy in Britain: Survey

Asians are more technology savvy than any other social group in Britain, with most Asian homes having Internet connections and DVD players, according to a survey.

The Sky TV survey indicates that entertainment enjoys a prime position in the daily agenda in Asian homes. One reason why television viewing is high among the Asians is because most of them do not go to clubs or pubs.

The survey is said to be the first of its kind on viewing habits in Asian homes, and was commissioned by Sky TV to mark the 10th anniversary of Asian satellite TV broadcasting in Britain.

The survey reveals that Asians are twice as likely as other families to have DVD players and more likely to have PCs, games consoles and Internet connections.

Three out of four British Asians have access to the Internet, compared to a national average of 50 percent. Moreover as many as 31 percent of Asian families have DVD players, which is more than double the British average.

The findings also reveal that six out of 10 Asian families have multi-channel TV and three-quarters feel underserved by mainstream terrestrial channels. But many also do not like the 24 Asian satellite TV channels to which they subscribe.

According to the survey, nine out of 10 Indian families are movie buffs but among Pakistanis the figure falls to less than half. Bollywood movies are among the most popular draws.

Research director Saber Khan said: "The survey shows for the first time that ethnic media consumption is high. Multi-channel TV now plays the major role in meeting TV demands of Asians."