Islamabad: Internet access has expanded rapidly, but remains uneven. A clear majority of Pakistanis now live in households with some form of internet access; however, usage continues to lag sharply among women, rural residents, and older age groups, indicating that physical availability has not translated into universal participation.

According to Gallup Pakistan analysis, 'Mobile phone ownership is widespread, but effective internet use remains limited. While most households report access to a mobile phone, only a fraction of users actively use the internet, highlighting a persistent gap between device ownership and meaningful digital engagement. Internet Access Reaches 69% of Households, Yet Deep Gender, Rural, and Skills Gaps Continue to Limit Pakistan's Digital Inclusion'

Affordability and relevance are the biggest barriers to going online. Among those without internet access, cost of devices and data packages emerge as the leading constraints, followed by lack of perceived usefulness and limited digital literacy, particularly in rural areas.

Pakistan's digital divide is increasingly skills-based rather than access-based. Nearly four in five internet users (79%) report familiarity with basic digital tasks such as messaging or browsing, but only about one in five (21%) can perform advanced skills like spreadsheet use or content creation-restricting access to higher-value digital work and online learning.

Women and rural populations face compounded digital exclusion. Across internet use, ICT skills, and digital services, women and rural residents consistently trail men and urban populations, reinforcing structural inequalities in education, employment, and financial inclusion.

Digital financial exclusion remains widespread. Despite growth in digital services, a substantial share of the population remains without any bank or digital account, limiting the reach of digital payments, government transfers, and online commerce.