Unequal diffusion of innovation: Focusing on the digital divide in using smartphones for travel

Abstract

As smartphones have become an essential medium for travel planning and engagement, a large amount of tourism research has investigated how smartphones influence travel experiences. However, such studies have not considered generational differences in the adoption of smartphones. In an aging society where a growing number of senior travelers are required to use smart devices, it is important to comparatively analyze how young and senior travelers adopt smartphones before, during, and after travel from the digital divide perspective. Applying a phenomenological research approach, in-depth qualitative interviews with young and senior travelers who have used smartphones for travel were conducted. The results demonstrate clear empirical evidence on the digital divide as young and senior travelers have different levels of travel interest, planning engagement, independency of travel experiences, and social sharing of travels. This research note provides nuanced insights into the digital divide in the adoption of smartphones for travel.