- Three out of four young users see artificial intelligence as useful, older users lack some confidence
- The emerging economies are the biggest users of generative artificial intelligence
- They also spend the most time on screens, which leads to poor well-being
According to new research from Cisco, there are a number of AI categories, including geographic and generational differences, that can have an effect on how users perceive AI.
Unsurprisingly, younger users (under 35) are the most likely to be engaged with digital platforms and therefore have the highest active AI usage at 50%. On the other hand, half of over-45s have not used AI at all, with over-55s citing unfamiliarity over outright rejection when it comes to a lack of trust in AI.
“Generational gaps in digital and AI adoption are not inevitable, they are challenges we can all address through purposeful action,” noted Global Innovation Officer and SVP Guy Diedrich.
AI perception changes by age and geography
Almost half of 26-35-year-olds have completed some form of AI training, and more than three out of four see it as useful. It is therefore these younger workers who see AI having a positive impact on jobs.
But it’s not just age that affects how we perceive artificial intelligence. Emerging economies are largely the global leaders in GenAI adoption, with countries such as India, Brazil, Mexico and South America standing out. The U.K., a middle-of-the-road country, ranks with Canada and Korea — despite repeated plans by the U.K. government to increase AI adoption.
European countries show lower trust and greater uncertainty, potentially with over-regulation taming adoption.
Although many users tend to have the highest recreational screen time, they also report lower well-being and reduced life satisfaction. Clearly, professional AI and technology adoption and personal use have different outcomes.
“AI’s greatest potential can be realized if it improves well-being by streamlining tasks, improving collaboration, and creating opportunities for growth and learning,” added Diedrich.
Cisco’s research therefore encourages companies and governments to focus on consistent skills and digital literacy across all generations and geographies – not speed of adoption. “That way, we can ensure that ‘Generation AI’ truly includes everyone,” Diedrich concluded.
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