Meanwhile, developed countries like the U.S. and U.K. remain cautious.
Only 53% of Americans prioritize AI innovation, compared to much higher enthusiasm in emerging markets.
Non-Generative AI
While generative AI tools like chatbots and content generators grab headlines, the public is more appreciative of non-generative AI applications.
These include AI for healthcare, fraud detection, flood forecasting, and other practical, high-impact use cases.
Generative AI, on the other hand, gets mixed reviews.
Writing, summarizing, or customer service applications don’t resonate as strongly with the public as AI’s potential to tackle bigger societal issues.
AI at Work: Young, Affluent, and Male-Dominated
AI is making its way into the workplace. 74% of AI users use it professionally for writing, brainstorming, and problem-solving tasks.
However, workplace AI adoption is skewed toward younger, wealthier, and male workers.
Blue-collar workers and older professionals are catching up—67% of blue-collar AI users and 68% of workers aged 50-74 use AI at work—but the gender gap remains pronounced.
Trust in AI Is Growing
Trust in AI governance is improving, with 61% of people confident their governments can regulate AI responsibly (up from 57% in 2023).
72% support collaboration between governments and companies to manage AI’s risks and maximize its benefits.
Takeaway
AI use is growing worldwide, though many people in North America still see little reason to use it.
To increase AI’s adoption, companies must build trust and clearly communicate the technology’s benefits.
For more details, check out the full report at Google Public Policy.
Featured Image: Stokkete/Shutterstock