Smartphones Dominate Digital Listening Across All Generations

Smartphones are the overwhelming top device for digital audio consumption, with 80% of Gen Z and 79% of millennial listeners tuning in primarily on their phones, according to a March 2026 survey from The Harris Poll and EMARKETER. 

This preference holds as the leading platform for every generation.

The smartphone habit shows no signs of slowing and is extending deeper into older demographics. Podcasts now reach 68% of adults ages 35 to 54 (millennials and Gen X), a notable increase from 61% just one year earlier, per Edison Research. This growth indicates that mobile audio is becoming a mainstream behavior well beyond younger listeners.

At the same time, podcast listening is evolving from a mostly commute-driven activity into a consistent, year-round habit. 52% of U.S. adults now report listening to podcasts at least several times a year, up significantly from 35% in 2022, according to CivicScience. 

Seasonal patterns further support this shift: 43% of listeners say they tune in more during the summer, while only 17% listen less.

Overall, these trends point to a maturing digital audio landscape where smartphones serve as the universal gateway, reach is broadening across age groups, and consumption is becoming more habitual and less tied to specific routines.