Do user counts equate to unique individuals?

In Australia, the average person manages almost seven social media accounts on different platforms, challenging assumptions about unique user counts. 

In a paper released by Swinburne University of Technology called “Blurred boundaries: social media and social connection in outer metropolitan suburbs”, shows for individuals navigating these digital spaces, it’s not about which platform boasts the highest user count.

It's crucial to distinguish between accounts and active users to truly understand online engagement. Metrics like active users are used by social media companies to showcase the platform's reach to marketers, but the reliability of these statistics is questionable due to factors like bot accounts and duplicates.

Algorithms play a significant role in determining the content users engage with, complicating the definition of an "active user." While high user counts may indicate popularity, true engagement extends beyond numbers to user interaction, content quality, and cultural impact.

Demographics show distinct preferences across age groups, with TikTok dominating among Gen Z, and platforms like Snapchat and Instagram being popular among younger adults. Facebook remains a preferred platform for older age groups, while LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter) attract users in their 30s and older.

Each platform caters to different content preferences, from news and professional connections to entertainment, highlighting the impact of demographic trends on user experiences. For content creators and news media, understanding user statistics is essential for reaching target audiences.

However, for everyday social media users, vast user numbers may not be as important as maintaining connections within their social circles. 

People gravitate towards platforms accepted by their community, emphasising the quality of interactions over global popularity. Ultimately, social media serves as a space for staying informed, entertained, and fostering relationships within one's community.

- CyberBeat