Internet, Science & Tech – September 28, 2026

September 30, 2026 Internet, Science & Tech A monthly digest of the Center’s latest research on how the internet, science and technology are impacting society · Subscribe ↗ Just over half of U.S. adults say they spend too much time on their smartphone, and 45% say they’ve tried to cut back on their smartphone use over the past 12 months. Of those who have tried cutting back, 25% report that they were highly successful. Since January, Americans have become more likely to say data centers are mostly bad for the environment (54%), home energy costs (50%) and people’s quality of life nearby (49%). This is true for people across age groups, partisan coalitions and community types. Nearly eight-in-ten U.S. adults (78%) say they are taking at least one supplement for their health, most commonly vitamins and minerals. Products differ somewhat by age, with younger adults especially likely to take protein supplements like powders, drinks or bars. Across 37 countries, people feel generally pessimistic about the potential impacts of AI on jobs and economic inequality, though many say they’re not sure. Concern in some nations runs especially high among younger adults. Media mentions Half of Americans Admit to Spending Too Much Time on PhonesToday America’s supplement habit: 80 percent of adults are taking at least oneScripps News Most Young Americans Are More Concerned About AI Than Excited, Pew Survey FindsForbes From our research The share of Americans who say they would be uncomfortable with a new data center in their area.