Online banking is now widespread in the US and UK, according to a survey conducted by Gartner during June, July and August 2007.

The study found that 71 million US adults and 14 million UK adults regularly use Web banking services.

"The current usage levels in both countries show that adoption is now taking place within the mainstream of consumers," said David Schehr, research director at Gartner.

Despite being mainstream, however, the results show that younger and high-income earners are more likely to use online banking services.

Surprisingly, the study found that instead of a declining use of other banking services, online bankers use other channels, such as ATMs and telephone banking, more.

"Banks and other financial services providers must now rethink the role of online banking within this context, and leverage this channel to serve their clients and strengthen relationships," noted Schehr.