MP3 players, such Apple’s iPod, are the most sought-after gadgets in Britain.

Britons spend more on gadgets than any other country in Europe, an international report has revealed.

According to the European Information Technology Observatory (EITO), British consumers are expected to spend over £11 billion this year on technology, compared with £9.3 billion in Germany, £7.2 billion in France and £4.3 billion in Italy.

The report, which was compiled in co-operation with IDC, shows that digital music players are the most popular gadgets amongst UK consumers. It predicts that Britons will buy 11 million MP3 devices this year, much higher than the 7 million expected in Germany and 6.3 million in France.

The study highlights a growing trend for increased IT usage across Europe. The continent currently accounts for one third of the world’s DSL broadband lines, with 65% of Europeans using the internet. A staggering 800 million people in Europe also have a mobile phone subscription.

Further information and the full report can be accessed online at www.eito.com.

By Natasha Piscitelli