News Broadcasting
Overall increase in media consumption on account of COVID-19: Kantar study
MUMBAI: As the world struggles with the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an increase in media consumption across all in-home channels, says a study by data, insights and consulting company Kantar.
The study finds that WhatsApp is the social media app that has experienced the greatest gains in usage as people look to stay connected. Overall, the popular chat app has seen a 40 per cent increase in usage.
In later stages of the pandemic, web browsing increased by 70 per cent, followed by an increase in (traditional) TV viewing by 63 per cent. Social media engagement increased by 61 per cent over normal usage rates.
The largest global study into consumer attitudes, media habits and expectations during the COVID-19 pandemic surveyed more than 25,000 consumers across 30 markets. The first wave of COVID-19 Barometer research provides brand owners with clear direction on how to ensure their brands stay connected to their customers during the pandemic crisis.
Key findings of the study are:
Media habits
Across all stages of the pandemic, WhatsApp is the social media app that is experiencing the greatest gains in usage as people look to stay connected. In the early phase of the pandemic, its usage increased 27 per cent.
Spain experienced a 76 per cent increase in time spent on WhatsApp. Overall Facebook usage has increased 37 per cent. China experienced a 58 per cent increase in usage of local social media apps including Wechat and Weibo.
Increased usage across all messaging platforms has been biggest in the 18-34 age group. WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram have all experienced a 40 per cent+ increase in usage from under 35-year olds.
There is a crisis in trust. Traditional nationwide news channels (broadcast and newspaper) are the most trusted sources of information with 52 per cent of people identifying them as a ‘trustworthy’ source. Government agency websites are regarded as trustworthy by only 48 per cent of people, suggesting that government measures are not providing citizens around the world with assurances and security. Also reflecting the loss of trust from recent election cycles, social media platforms are regarded by only 11 per cent of people as a source of trustworthy information
Expectations of Brands
There is very little expectation that brands should stop advertising with only eight per cent of respondents identifying it as a priority for brands. As many brands consider ‘going dark’ to save costs, Kantar estimates that a six-month absence from TV will result in a 39 per cent reduction in total brand communication awareness, potentially delaying recovery in the post-pandemic world.
News Broadcasting
BBC to cut up to 2,000 jobs in biggest overhaul in 15 years
Cost pressures and leadership change drive major workforce reduction plan
LONDON: BBC has unveiled plans to cut up to 2,000 jobs, roughly 10 per cent of its global workforce, in what marks its biggest downsizing in 15 years.
The announcement was made during an all-staff meeting led by interim director-general Rhodri Talfan Davies, as the broadcaster moves to tackle mounting financial pressures and reshape its operations.
Between 1,800 and 2,000 roles are expected to be eliminated from a workforce of around 21,500. The cuts form part of a broader plan to save £500 million over the next two years, aimed at offsetting rising costs, stagnating licence fee income and weaker commercial revenues.
In a communication to staff, BBC interim director-general Rhodri Talfan Davies said, “I know this creates real uncertainty, but we wanted to be open about the challenge,” acknowledging the impact the move would have across the organisation.
The restructuring comes at a time of leadership transition. Former director-general Tim Davie stepped down earlier this month, with Matt Brittin, a former Google executive, set to take over the role on May 18, 2026.
While some cost-cutting measures are being implemented immediately, the majority of the structural changes are expected to roll out over the next few years, with full savings targeted by the 2027–2028 financial year.
The broadcaster had earlier signalled its intent to reduce its cost base by around 10 per cent over a three-year period, warning of “difficult choices” as it adapts to shifting economic realities and audience expectations.
With operating costs hovering around £6 billion annually, the BBC’s latest move underscores the scale of the financial challenge it faces, as it balances public service commitments with the need for long-term sustainability in an increasingly competitive media landscape.
