29% In The U.S. & Canada Used AI Last Year

A new Google-Ipsos report shows AI adoption is increasing globally, especially in emerging markets.

However, the study reveals challenges like regional divides, gender disparities, and slower adoption in developed countries.

Critics, including Nate Hake, founder of Travel Lemming, point out how Google overlooks these challenges in its report coverage.

Takeaways of Google’s AI Ipsos survey when you look through the PR spin 👓👇

1) 71% of Americans did not even use Generative AI in 2024
2) 58% of Americans think AI is unlikely to benefit them
3) There is a concerning gender gap in AI usage
4) US society is deeply apprehensive… https://t.co/dSZEtXsDoG

— Nate Hake (@natejhake) January 16, 2025

While optimism around AI is rising, it’s not resonating with everyone.

Here’s a closer look at the report and what the numbers indicate.

AI Is Growing, But Unevenly

Globally, 48% of people used generative AI last year, with countries like Nigeria, Mexico, and South Africa leading adoption. These regions also show the most excitement about AI’s potential to boost economies and improve lives.

Adoption lags at 29% in developed nations like the U.S. and Canada, meaning that 71% of people in these regions haven’t knowingly engaged with generative AI tools.

Screenshot: Google-Ipsos Study ‘Our life with AI: From innovation to application,’ January 2025.

Optimism Outweighs Concerns

Globally, 57% of people are excited about AI, compared to 43% who are concerned—a shift from the year prior, when excitement and concerns were evenly split.

People cite AI’s potential in science (72%) and medicine (71%) as reasons for their optimism. Respondents see opportunities for breakthroughs in healthcare and research.

However, in the U.S., skepticism lingers—only 52% believe AI will directly benefit “people like them,” compared to the global average of 59%.

Gender Gaps Persist

The report highlights a gender gap in AI usage: 55% of global AI users are men compared to 45% women.

The disparity is even bigger in workplace adoption, where 41% of professional AI users are women.

Emerging Markets Are Leading the Way

Emerging markets are using AI more and are more optimistic about its potential.

In regions like Nigeria and South Africa, people are more likely to believe AI will transform their economies.