A YouGov survey of more than 2,300 British adults found that only 15% communicate via voice note regularly, making it the least popular communication method across all demographics.
Voice note usage remains low despite slight growth in the past year
The same survey indicated that voice notes have become slightly more popular compared to the previous year, though adoption remains minimal. Across men, women, and every age group — including Gen Z — voice notes ranked below other forms of communication. This persistent lack of appeal suggests cultural or practical barriers to wider acceptance.
Britons prefer text-based messaging over voice notes
Data from YouGov shows that messaging apps dominate UK communication habits, with 89% of Brits using them regularly. In contrast, voice notes are used by a small minority, with most adults either never having sent one or doing so infrequently. The preference for text allows for asynchronous, discreet communication that voice notes do not always provide.
Generational habits do not drive voice note adoption in the UK
Unlike in some countries where younger users lead audio messaging trends, UK data shows no significant uptake among 18-24 year olds. Only a fraction of this group sends voice notes daily, and a substantial portion never uses them. This indicates that the technology has not resonated even with demographics typically early to adopt fresh digital communication forms.
What percentage of Brits use voice notes regularly?
According to the YouGov survey, 15% of British adults communicate via voice note on a regular basis, defined as a few times a week.
Is voice note usage growing in the UK?
The survey found that voice notes have become slightly more popular in the last year, though they remain the least used communication method across all age and gender groups.