The Meta-analysis based Modified Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology Model: A Systematic Review

Abstract

This study reviews state-of-the-art research on the application of the meta-analysis based Modified Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology model (Meta-UTAUT) to provide a comprehensive understanding of how the model has been applied across diverse contexts. From 1,881 citations of the original model, 36 Scopus-and Web of Science-indexed studies were analysed. Findings reveal that mobile payment is the most examined system, with financial technology as the predominant domain of application. Across studies, attitude consistently emerged as a strong determinant of behavioural intention and use behaviour, underscoring its central role in technology adoption. Behavioural intention and facilitating conditions were the most influential predictors of use behaviour, while performance expectancy and effort expectancy contributed substantially to shaping attitude. Many studies extended the Meta-UTAUT framework by incorporating external variables to enrich explanations of attitude, intention, and behaviour, deepening theoretical understanding of technology adoption. This review highlights recurring methodological limitations, including single-subject sampling, cross-sectional designs, and sampling methods, indicating the need for more rigorous approaches to strengthen theoretical refinement and improve generalisability. This study is the first to offer an extensive synthesis of Meta-UTAUT applications, providing valuable implications for researchers and guiding future inquiry toward more rigorous and contextually diverse investigations.