There was a time when people claimed nothing could ever get between Americans and their addiction to television.

That, obviously, was before we had the Internet.

Now, more people are relying on the Internet to provide what they once found only through television.

A new survey on social media use habits shows that 56% of people said they’re spending more time on the Internet now for entertainment than they were a year ago. In terms of social media, specifically, 49% of Americans are spending more time with it than a year ago.

At the same time, 52% are spending more time on their mobile phones.

What’s drawing consumers to the Internet is the perception that social media is an enjoyable form of entertainment.

A warning to businesses: Be selective about how you target your marketing and sales efforts. Nearly nine out of 10 (88%) U.S. consumers opposed turning free entertainment sites into pay-to-play experiences.

Tags: Internet, social media, survey, TV, usage