As digital connectivity expands in Papua New Guinea, social media platforms continue to grow in popularity. Here's a look at the top 10 platforms dominating the landscape in 2026.
With 3.2 million users in 2026, Facebook remains the leading social media platform in Papua New Guinea, capturing 45% of the online social media user base.
WhatsApp has seen a 15% increase in users this year, reaching 2.9 million, making it the preferred messaging app for 41% of social media users.
YouTube's user base grew to 2.4 million in 2026, accounting for 34% of social media platform users, driven by local content creators.
Instagram now boasts 1.8 million users, representing 25% of social media users, with a focus on visual content and influencer marketing.
TikTok's rapid growth continues, with 1.6 million users in 2026, up 20% from last year, making it a key platform for entertainment and youth engagement.
Twitter maintains a steady user base of 1 million, with a 10% increase, primarily used for news and political discussions.
Professional networking on LinkedIn reached 850,000 users, a 12% growth, reflecting increased digital literacy and business activity.
Snapchat's popularity among younger users remains strong, with 700,000 users, representing 10% of the social media population.
Pinterest has expanded to 400,000 users, mainly used for fashion, craft ideas, and local inspiration, growing 8% in 2026.
Viber, a popular messaging app, has 600,000 users, primarily used for private chats, with a 5% growth rate in the past year.
The social media landscape in Papua New Guinea in 2026 is marked by diverse platforms catering to various interests and demographics. Continued growth and changing preferences suggest a dynamic digital environment ahead.
A: TikTok leads with a 20% increase in users this year, driven by its popularity among youth and entertainment content.
A: Yes, local creators are significantly impacting platforms like YouTube and Instagram, contributing to increased user engagement.
A: Businesses are increasingly leveraging social media for marketing, with platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp playing key roles in digital advertising strategies.