The proportion of digital content purchases is gradually increasing.

Limelight Networks has released its 'State of Digital Content Downloads 2017' report.

This report is based on a survey of 3,500 consumers of various ages, genders and education levels from around the world, including France, Germany, India, Japan, Korea (507 people), the UK and the US.

According to the report, a growing number of global consumers are accessing digital content via smartphones and purchasing video games, movies, and books online.

The report also details consumers' evolving perceptions and demands for streaming and downloadable content. According to the report, only 14% of respondents rent or purchase DVDs to watch movies and TV shows, while 25% still prefer books or hard copies of traditional print media.

Conversely, two-thirds (66%) of respondents said they prefer to stream or download TV shows and movies, while 38% said they prefer to download books, newspapers, and magazines. Furthermore, when it comes to music, nearly half (46%) said they prefer to download music rather than buy CDs or stream it.

“As the mobile user base grows, digital content is becoming the optimal format for consuming media,” said Michael Milligan, Senior Director at Limelight Networks. “To deliver the best experience to the widest possible audience, content must be easily accessible and optimized across all connected devices and global networks. This is essential for providers to survive in the market,” he said.