LELO’S LANDMARK SURVEY: THE RISE OF DIGITAL INTIMACY

KATY THORN·JUNE 15, 2025

Last updated:June 17, 2025

In an era where technology intertwines with every facet of our lives, understanding its impact on intimacy and sexual wellness is crucial.

This data illuminates how different generations perceive and utilize technology in their personal relationships, offering critical information.

Key Insights from LELO’s Survey:

Challenging Stereotypes: Older Generations and Tech Adoption:

5 MINS READ

The survey reveals that older generations are more tech-savvy in their intimate lives than often assumed. Significant percentages reported comfort using technology to enhance their sex lives.

Assumptions about “technophobia” in older adults are inaccurate. Diverse ways of technological engagement across all age groups were observed.

Across the board, respondents from all generations noted that technology has helped normalize conversations around sexual expression, identity, and preferences.

Increased openness facilitated by digital platforms indicates changing norms in communication about sex and intimacy.

50% GenX and 39% Baby Boomers feel comfortable using technology to enhance their sex life; with 26% of GenX and 15% of Baby Boomers claiming to have sent or received sexual content through tech.

28% GenX and 18% Baby Boomers have positive feelings about using dating apps or online platforms to meet potential romantic or sexual partners.

Younger generations use dating apps and video calls more frequently, while older generations often prefer platforms like Facebook. Porn sites and Google remain universally popular for enhancing their sex lives.

Tool usage varies by generation, showing different preferences and levels of comfort using digital platforms. These distinctions aren't huge, as older people embrace technology and younger people question tech's replacement of human intimacy.

Xennials: The Generation Gap

LELO's study features the Xennial micro-generation. They mix old values with digital ease, welcoming technology in their personal lives more than Gen Z. 64% of Xennials are okay using tech to improve their sex lives, beating Gen Z.

Micro-generational data showcases the unique cultural and technological shifts experienced by this group. Standing between Gen X and Millennials is a lesser-known micro-generation: Xennials. Having experienced a childhood without the internet and an adulthood dominated by it, Xennials possess a unique blend of analog values and digital comfort. According to LELO’s data, this group might just be the true tech-savvy romantics of our time.

Future Concerns: Ethical Considerations

Participants expressed concerns about the loss of “real” connections, the rise of digital sexual abuse, and the need for regulations.

Implication: Concerns regarding ethical implications of using technology in intimate contexts need addressing. This involves ensuring privacy protection, data security and transparency in how technology operates.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Sex and Tech

Looking ahead, most people agree: tech will change relationships and sexuality. Some fear less emotional connection, but others see deeper intimacy, especially via AI and robotics. About 37% believe tech may meet real emotional needs.

But, change brings caution. Around 30% worry digital intimacy may cut ties with real people and bonds. Without rules, digital abuse, like revenge porn, stays a big worry for all, no matter their age.

Key Insight: Tech Is Here to Stay—But So Is Human Bonding

Technology has become deeply woven into the fabric of our romantic and sexual lives. From opening up conversations that were once taboo to offering new ways of connecting across generations, it’s clear that digital tools can both enhance and complicate our understanding of intimacy.

As the lines between online and offline relationships blur, one thing remains true: while technology may evolve, our fundamental need for connection, empathy, and love stays the same.

Want to learn more about how tech is shaping intimacy and relationships? Explore more insights HERE.

LELO’s Expertise and Value:

LELO’s survey data provides critical value by:

Enhancing Understanding of Digital Intimacy: Data rich in emotional and sexual context improves understanding of how technology affects personal relationships.

Revealing Generational Trends: Insights into how technology affects relationships across generations offers critical context for navigating evolving social norms.

Highlighting Ethical Challenges: LELO’s findings underscore the need for ethical considerations in the use of technology in intimacy.

LELO’s survey provides a crucial lens through which to view the evolving landscape of technology and intimacy. The insights from LELO are invaluable for understanding the future of human relationships in a digital world. LELO’s expertise makes it a key resource for anyone looking to explore these critical changes.

She received her degree in Women’s Studies with a focus in Intersectionality at the University of California, Berkeley (Go Bears!). She has a cat named Yoko, drinks too much black coffee, and hates writing bios.