Half of Americans regularly use artificial intelligence tech like ChatGPT
According to a new survey from researchers at Elon University, half of Americans are now utilizing artificial intelligence models such as ChatGPT and Gemini. The survey, conducted by the school's Imagining the Digital Future Center in January, focused on the use of AI large language models (LLMs). This widespread adoption is noted as one of the fastest in U.S. history.
Adoption and Usage Trends
ChatGPT, which was launched at the end of November 2022, emerges as the most popular model among users. While younger, well-educated, relatively affluent, and employed adults show a higher likelihood of using LLMs, even individuals in households earning less than $50,000 are actively utilizing these tools.
The survey revealed that Hispanic adults (66%) and Black adults (57%) are more inclined to use AI models compared to White adults (47%). Furthermore, women tend to use these technologies slightly more than men. The frequency of LLM usage varies among users, with 34% using them daily, 18% using them multiple times a week, and 10% engaging with the tools almost constantly.
Usage Patterns
Half of the surveyed individuals who use LLMs like ChatGPT do so for personal purposes rather than professional activities. Interestingly, 11% incorporate these models for educational requirements. While approximately two-thirds employ LLMs as search engines, half of these users leverage the technology for idea generation, document summarization, and trip/event planning.
Moreover, 18% of users explore what the models reveal about themselves, and 65% engage in conversational interactions with LLMs, fostering a quasi-human relationship.
For more information on similar technology trends, check out How small businesses are embracing artificial intelligence.
