Telia Finland said that use of data by Finns in the evenings has increased by a fifth this autumn compared with normal times, amid rising use for entertainment, as well as other everyday usage. Sami Siiki, SVP for networks at the operator, said the gloomy autumn has boosted internet use, probably because viewers are watching streaming services more.

Christmas data volumes are expected to reach record levels, Telia said. Siiki said this the festive season is a time for getting in touch with relatives, but also watch streamed video more.

This year's Christmas trade is difficult to anticipate as coronavirus restrictions will keep shoppers away, but at the same time, Stratistics Finland figues show that household savings have increased during the pandemic.

Jussi Vuorinen, head of Telia's equipment business, said Covid-19 restrictions have led many to make their homes more comfortable by buying laptops, game consoles and bigger television sets. On Singles' Day (11 November), Telia’s handset sales tripled compared with 2019. Black Friday sales are likely to reach a record level this year, he said. Vuorinen speculated that customers might us Microsoft Teams to enjoy a remote Christmas meal with their grandparents.