Gen Z digital competence gap highlighted in Germany as US teens begin ditching smartphones

An analysis by the Institute of the German Economy (IW) of Eurostat data shows that more than one‑third of 16‑ to 24‑year‑olds in Germany lack basic digital competencies, despite near‑universal smartphone ownership. Only Romania and Bulgaria score lower in the EU, and women slightly outperform men (76 % vs 73 %). The report stresses that frequent use of platforms such as TikTok, Instagram or YouTube does not translate into skills like information evaluation, data security or productive software use, which are essential for qualified employment.

In the United States, a CBS News segment reports a growing trend of Gen Z individuals choosing to disconnect, with some teens abandoning social‑media apps and even their smartphones altogether. The shift reflects a broader questioning of constant connectivity among young people.

Together, the findings highlight a widening gap between digital consumption and actual digital competence among youth in Europe and a parallel move in the US toward reduced device reliance.