With ever-changing technology, we feel it’s important to keep a pulse on Millennials. Our latest study revealed the latest on Millennials and technology, from their habits and preferences to their thoughts on today’s most innovative companies.Among the most insightful findings, we discovered that Millennial men and women have different opinions on companies they consider to be the most innovative. Among male Millennials, Google was their top choice, with 35 percent saying it is currently the most innovative company. Looking ahead, that positive perception only increased: 38 percent of male Millennials predict Google to be the most innovative company five years from now.

However, among female Millennials, Apple was the top choice for most innovative today (39%). It’s worth noting, however, that their perception of Apple as most innovative decreased when looking to the future. Twenty-six percent of female Millennial predicted Apple to be the most innovative company in five years, followed very closely by Google at 25%.Millennials were also asked to choose a technology innovation that was most interesting to them from a list nine innovations. The 3D printer topped the list, with 22 percent of Millennials choosing it as their favorite, barely edging out a self-driving car (21%). Google Glass came in third with 15 percent selecting it as most interesting, just ahead of 3D holographic videos (14%). Smart watches were in the middle of the pack (7%), while electric bike came in last with just 3 percent finding it to be the most interesting.When it comes to Millennials’ social media usage, the top three social media networks they currently log into at least once a week are Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

When asked which ones they plan to be using in five years, Facebook showed an 18% drop in usage, Twitter showed a 27% drop, and Instagram showed a drop of 12%. LinkedIn was the only network that showed an increase (10%).As attached to technology as Millennials are, they appear to be stingy with sharing technology with the next generation. Sixty-two percent believe a child should be at least 14 years old before receiving their first smartphone. Over a quarter (28%) said 11-13 years old, while ten percent said 10 years old or younger.

A complete topline report is available for download on the Lab42 website.

METHODOLOGY

This survey was conducted among 500 American adult Millennials between the ages 18 and 34 from March 28-30, 2014. Survey participants were asked about how they classify themselves when it comes to new technology: Early Adopter (34%), Fast Follower (33%), Mainstream (25%), and Late Adopter (8%). The survey then examined the views, attitudes, and preferences of Millennials regarding innovative technology and social media. Data was analyzed by gender identity, age, relationship status, and self-classification.