Mobile short-video characteristics and continuous use intention among Chinese young adults

The rapid growth and popularity of mobile short-video platforms among Chinese young adults has made it crucial to understand the factors associated with their continued use. This study integrated the stimulus–organism–response framework and the extended technology acceptance model to investigate how the external characteristics of short videos affect users’ perceived usefulness and continued use intention, incorporating user habit as a moderator. We used an online survey to collect data from 405 Chinese young adults. The results showed that recommendations and entertainment were positively associated with continuous use intention, while interactivity was not. Perceived usefulness predicted continuous use intention, as well as mediating the relationships of recommendations, interactivity, and entertainment with continuous use intention. Furthermore, user habit strengthened the link between perceived usefulness and continuous use intention. These findings can guide developers in enhancing short-video characteristics to boost young adults’ sustained usage, while helping social and educational professionals develop interventions for healthy and reasonable use.