The first thing we do when we wake up is check our phones for new messages, emails, alerts from our apps, or scroll whichever endless feed captivates our attention. We’ve done this for years.

For many others, their first year on the Internet was recent. According to data from the World Bank, 29% of the world’s population don’t use the Internet. In many countries, the digital divide is often due to lack of reliable access and illiteracy. Even in developed countries, such as the U.S., a handful of households choose not to be online due to cost, lack of interest, and privacy and security concerns.

We interviewed 4 people around the world for which 2025 was their first year on the Internet. They loved the access to information, and the freedom to learn. They were introduced to the world of online scams quickly. All of them felt that being on the Internet expanded their world.

Here are their stories, from New Delhi to the Bronx.