New research from the Economist suggests that the web isn't just for dirty sites anymore. In fact, traffic to net communities and chat sites are trending to surpass porn in the next few months.
In 2006, Hitwise reported that 13% of web traffic was directed at dirty sites, this year, that number is on the decline. Web surfers are migrating their traffic to sites like Facebook, MySpace and Bebo.
However, if you think sex is on its way out you'd be incorrect. The article also points out that a significant proportion of activity on social networking sites is related to dating and sex. Using Second Life as an example, 30% of the transactions are related to sex or gambling. Users must pay to enhance their avatars by adding genitals... And apparently, that's big business. As a result, the Economist concludes by suggesting, "Porn sites may have reached a climax, but sex remains as potent online as ever."
Online Communities to Surpass Porn
Economist Suggests Shift in Web Usage
Trend Themes
1. Rise of Online Communities - The increasing popularity of online communities and chat sites is leading to a decline in web traffic to porn sites, suggesting opportunities for businesses to focus on developing innovative platforms for social interaction.
2. Integration of Dating and Sex in Social Networks - The article highlights that a significant proportion of activity on social networking sites is related to dating and sex, indicating potential for disruptive innovation in creating platforms that cater specifically to these needs.
3. Monetizing Virtual Sexual Experiences - The booming business of selling virtual genitals and related enhancements in platforms like Second Life demonstrates the potential for disruptive innovation in creating virtual sexual experiences for users to enhance their avatars.
Industry Implications
1. Social Networking - The rising trend of online communities and chat sites suggests opportunities for the social networking industry to develop innovative platforms that cater to the evolving needs of users.
2. Online Dating - With a significant portion of social networking activity related to dating and sex, the online dating industry can capitalize on this trend by providing specialized platforms for individuals seeking romantic or sexual connections.
3. Virtual Reality - The monetization of virtual genital enhancements in platforms like Second Life points towards potential disruptive innovation opportunities in the virtual reality industry to create immersive and customizable sexual experiences.