Most Americans believe AI is advancing too quickly

According to the latest Pew Research poll, 49 percent of Americans report using chatbots at least occasionally, but 63 percent think the tech is advancing too quickly. Overall, use of AI chatbots has increased dramatically since 2024, when only 33 percent reported using them. Specifically, ChatGPT's usage has doubled since 2023, with 44 percent of respondents saying they've used it.

But opinions remain negative, with only 16 percent saying that AI will have a positive impact on society. Interestingly, it's the younger generations who both report using AI more and who are inclined to have a more pessimistic view. 66 percent of Americans between 18 and 29 years old say they have used a chatbot, compared to 37 percent of those 65 and older.

The Pew Research poll also found that 57 percent of adults with a bachelor's degree or higher have used a chatbot, compared to 41 percent of those with some college education or less. The rapid growth of AI usage has raised concerns about the technology's potential impact on society. Younger adults are more likely to see AI's potential risks, with 73 percent of 18- to 29-year-olds saying they are worried about the impact of AI on society, compared to 53 percent of those 65 and older.

Why this matters: The Pew Research poll highlights a disconnect between the rapid growth of AI usage and public perception of its impact on society. As AI becomes increasingly ubiquitous, with 49% of Americans using chatbots occasionally, concerns about its risks and consequences are growing. For developers and businesses, this means that transparency and accountability in AI development will be crucial to addressing public concerns.

For consumers, it means being aware of the potential risks and benefits of AI and having a say in how the technology is developed and deployed. Ultimately, the future of AI will depend on striking a balance between innovation and responsibility, and it's clear that the public is eager for a more nuanced conversation about the role of AI in society.