Digital Platforms Benefit Germans More Than They Harm

Bitkom published a survey of 1,003 Germans that finds they perceive more benefits than drawbacks from digital platforms. 61% view platforms as advantageous. Respondents highlighted the ability to compare offers quickly (79%), to find the cheapest option (64%), and to potentially see lower prices (49%). About 40% value single-registration logins across providers. 45% feel platforms reduce exposure to offers outside the platform, with higher emphasis among the 16–29 age group. Examples cited include Airbnb, Amazon, eBay, Flixbus, Netflix, Spotify, and the Apple and Google app stores. Achim Berg, Bitkom president, supports the positive view. The study also notes regulatory questions surrounding platforms, but emphasizes the genuine value platforms provide in offering broad access and simplified discovery for consumers.