Desire for more software from Europe: Survey on digital independence

A recent survey commissioned by the digital association Bitkom examines the attitudes of the German public toward digital technologies from Europe. The results show broad support for greater digital independence, as well as growing interest in European digital technologies, software, and services.

Desire for greater independence

A clear majority of people in Germany believe the country is heavily dependent on non-European countries when it comes to digital technologies. According to the survey, 93% of respondents believe that Germany relies on providers outside Europe for key digital services such as software, smartphones, and messaging apps.

The desire for greater autonomy is correspondingly strong: 79% support investing more heavily in key digital technologies, and nearly all respondents (99%) consider greater independence in this area to be important.

Consumers: The gap between expectations and behavior

In everyday life, however, the picture is mixed. While about one-third of respondents (34%) say they have already consciously chosen a European digital product, another 27% have at least considered doing so. However, just as many (34%) say they have not given it any thought so far.

Willingness to change - with limitations

At the same time, many do not see the responsibility as lying solely with politics and business. 87% believe that consumers must also adapt their behavior to achieve greater digital independence. A majority of 62% would even be willing to accept short-term disadvantages. In practice, however, a switch often fails due to obstacles: more than half (55%) find switching to European providers too cumbersome.

European services remain a niche phenomenon

Actual usage of European offerings also remains limited so far. According to their own reports, 14% use European social networks, 13% rely on European search engines or browsers, and 11% use messaging services from Europe. Usage is even lower in other areas: Only 6% rely on European AI applications or chatbots, and just 5% use smartphones from European manufacturers.

Challenge: From interest to widespread use

The results suggest that while there is a fundamental interest in European alternatives, their adoption in everyday life has so far fallen short of expectations. The key factor is likely to be whether these services can be brought to the mass market more quickly and made more appealing to users.

Contextualizing the results

The survey is based on responses from 1,004 people aged 16 and older in Germany. It highlights both the interest in digital offerings from Europe and the existing challenges regarding their use and adoption.