Taiwan Empirical Survey Data Platform

At its WWDC 2025 keynote held on June 10 (Taiwan time), Apple unveiled new operating systems including iOS 26 and macOS 26, with a focus on three major updates:
🔹 A more unified and modern user interface design (Liquid Glass)
🔹 Enhanced AI-powered features (such as real-time translation and intelligent summarization)
🔹 Improved cross-device synchronization and integration (notably upgrades to the Phone App and Universal Control)

Apple has long pursued the creation of a tightly integrated device ecosystem, enabling users to seamlessly transition and sync tasks across iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch. For users who routinely engage in cross-platform workflows, such integration undoubtedly boosts convenience and efficiency. However, this raises an important question: do contemporary adolescents truly require such media multitasking capabilities?

According to research conducted by Professor Chang Yu-Min of the Department of Advertising at National Chengchi University, using data from the Taiwan Communication Survey (TCS), high school students in Taiwan do exhibit a strong tendency toward media multitasking. The findings show that only 7.1% of respondents had never used more than one medium at the same time. Among those who reported simultaneous media use, the most frequently used devices were smartphones (45.5%) and televisions (19.4%). In other words, while not all multitasking behaviors may be intentional or productive, the majority of teenagers have experience with cross-media engagement, with smartphones serving as the central hub of their media lives.

Since 2012, the Taiwan Communication Survey has continuously tracked media usage behavior among the Taiwanese population. For those curious about which devices are most commonly used alongside smartphones in adolescents’ media multitasking habits, the latest wave of data—updated through 2023—offers valuable insights. Researchers and students interested in digital behavior are encouraged to explore this rich dataset.

For a more in-depth analysis, refer to the work of Professor Chang Yu-Min, featured in the volume “What’s Trending in Communication: Changes in Media Behavior and Theoretical Dialogues in Taiwan.” This publication presents comprehensive research findings on the evolving patterns of media use among Taiwanese youth.