Looking for a way to earn extra rewards from the phone and computer you already use? The Nielsen Computer & Mobile Panel lets eligible U.S. participants contribute to digital audience research and potentially earn rewards for keeping its software active on qualifying devices.
It is not a work-from-home job or guaranteed income source. It may, however, be an interesting option for people who enjoy trying research and rewards programs.
Affiliate disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Two Chicks With a Side Hustle may earn a commission if you complete a qualifying action through our links, at no additional cost to you.
What is the Nielsen Computer & Mobile Panel?
Nielsen is an audience research company that studies how people use media and technology. Through its Computer & Mobile Panel, eligible participants agree to install Nielsen software on supported devices so the company can learn about general website and app usage.
How much can you earn?
Nielsen’s U.S. program advertises up to $60 in yearly reward points for qualifying participation: up to $30 for an eligible mobile device and up to $30 for an eligible computer. Members may also receive opportunities for instant-win games, sweepstakes, and special research invitations.
Rewards are conditional on the program rules, qualifying devices, and continued participation. The annual maximum is not $60 per month, and sweepstakes prizes are never guaranteed. Check the offer page for current terms.
How to get started
- Sign up: Follow the link below and complete the enrollment questions.
- Check eligibility: Nielsen determines whether your household and devices qualify.
- Set up your device: If accepted, follow Nielsen’s directions to install the official app or computer software.
- Participate: Keep the software active as required while you use your device normally.
- Review rewards: Check your account for points, research invitations, and other available opportunities.
What information does Nielsen collect?
According to Nielsen’s U.S. FAQ, its software measures details such as websites and apps visited, time spent using them, and general device activity. Nielsen says the panel app does not collect user IDs or passwords. Even so, participation involves meaningful device-usage data collection, so read the full privacy notice and requested permissions carefully.
For shared household devices, make sure others who use the device understand and consent. Do not install the software on an employer-owned computer without your employer’s authorization.
Who qualifies?
Nielsen’s published U.S. eligibility requirements generally include being at least 18 years old, owning or lawfully controlling the device, informing other device users and obtaining the required consent, and completing enrollment requirements. Some device types or participant categories may already be filled.
Pros and things to consider
Potential benefits
- No fee to join the panel
- Possible rewards for qualified ongoing participation
- No traditional shifts or fixed work hours
- Possible invitations to additional research
Important considerations
- Data collection and software permissions
- Limited or changing eligibility
- Modest, conditional rewards
- Potentially different reward programs by device
- Chances to win are not guaranteed earnings
Is Nielsen worth it?
If you are comfortable with the software and privacy conditions, Nielsen could be one way to collect modest rewards from research participation. It should not be treated as a replacement for regular employment or guaranteed income.
Frequently asked questions
Is Nielsen free to join?
Yes. Nielsen’s U.S. FAQ says there is no participation fee.
Is it $60 per month?
No. The published amount is up to $60 in reward points per year for qualifying participation.
Do I have to install software?
Software installation and continued device participation are required to earn the advertised ongoing device rewards.
Can I leave the panel?
Yes. Nielsen’s FAQ describes how to opt out and uninstall its software.
Final thoughts from Two Chicks With a Side Hustle
We like highlighting flexible ways to explore side income, paid research, and rewards programs. Nielsen is worth learning about if its modest rewards and data-sharing requirements make sense for you. Read the terms, check eligibility, and make the choice that works for your household.
Affiliate disclosure: This article includes affiliate links. We may receive a commission for qualifying referrals. The commission is paid to us, not to the participant.
Program details reviewed October 2026 against Nielsen’s U.S. Computer & Mobile Panel information. Rewards, eligibility, and terms can change.