17 February 2026
By Roger Kennedy
roger@TheCork.ie

Entertainment

Photo by atelierbyvineeth … on Unsplash

The smartphone has gone from being a luxury item to a must-have tool in just over ten years. It has changed the way people in Ireland live their lives every day. Whether you’re in the busy streets of Cork City or the difficult terrain of West Cork, mobile devices are now the major way to receive information, shop, and have fun. People in Ireland will be more dependent on these mobile devices than ever before by 2026. This has changed the way they use services, consume media, and engage with their communities.

How Do Smartphones Affect Irish Digital Media Use?

The rise of app ecosystems and the fact that high-speed internet is now available to almost everyone are pushing people to consume digital content in a “mobile-first” approach. The Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) recently released data showing that mobile data traffic in Ireland has grown a lot. This is because more people are using interactive apps and video content.

It’s not just that people are going to news sites more; this is a big change in how people spend their leisure time. More and more Irish people are giving up viewing the web on their desktops in favor of simple mobile apps that allow them to connect right away. The smartphone is the easiest way to do things like stream a game with the GAA Go app, keep track of your money with safe banking apps, or get to specialized entertainment sites.

What 5G and broadband infrastructure do in Munster

The infrastructure has a huge effect on how easy it is to get to digital information on a smartphone. The National Broadband Plan is still being put into action, and it has made a tremendous difference in how connected cities and towns are. The plan’s main goal is to provide fiber-based networks to houses all around the country, even in Cork’s rural districts.

At the same time, 5G networks have gotten rid of lag and buffering, so streaming in high definition and talking to people in real time are now smooth. This upgrade to the infrastructure helps people in Ireland have better digital experiences while driving, such high-quality video calls and engaging mobile games. Everyone can now get high-speed mobile internet, so a person in Skibbereen can use the same digital services as someone in Dublin.

Mobile Entertainment and Leisure Activities are Changing

The entertainment industry has had to change quickly as screens have gotten better and networks have gotten quicker. Ireland’s free time is becoming very digital, with mobile apps being the most popular way to unwind. People want quick, easy-to-find entertainment options that they can use when they are traveling or during calm times.

This change has made it possible for platforms to provide advanced experiences right on mobile devices. Jackpot City, a favourite online casino in Ireland, is an example of how traditional entertainment sectors have moved to mobile-first approaches. This lets people safely use interactive platforms on their cellphones. For these kinds of platforms to work, they need to be easy to use and have strong security, which is what modern Irish consumers want.

Also, the fact that smartphones now have digital payments built in, and that digital wallets are being used more and more for in-store purchases, has made the whole digital leisure experience easier by allowing for instant interactions without the need for physical cards.

Managing Digital Habits, Safety, and Security

There are many benefits to having an internet connection on your phone, but more people using them has raised concerns about digital safety and screen time. As Irish families connect, safe use of these platforms is crucial.

Users are increasingly seeking strategies to balance online and offline activity. Using built-in phone capabilities to measure phone use and secure ways to access sensitive information like bank accounts and personal accounts are examples. Learn online identity protection.

In a “always-on” environment, it’s crucial to stay current on digital developments for protecting personal data.