How about an AI boss? - SA adopts ChatGPT for work, school and ...
South Africans are embracing artificial intelligence (AI) in various aspects of their lives, including work and personal tasks. A recent study by Kaspersky indicates a growing trust in AI, with many individuals welcoming the digital tool for new roles in different fields.
AI in the Workplace
According to the survey, a significant percentage of respondents are open to the idea of AI taking on managerial roles. Some professionals see AI as a potential fairer boss due to its impartial nature compared to human supervisors. The survey, titled "Excitement, Superstition and great Insecurity – How global Consumers engage with the Digital World," involved 10,000 participants aged between 18 and 40 from various countries, including South Africa.
Vladislav Tushkanov, the Machine Learning Technology Research Group Manager at Kaspersky, highlighted the popularity of ChatGPT, which received 153 million visits within its first month of launch in November 2022. The chatbot's global appeal peaked at two billion visits in April 2024, showcasing the increasing adoption of AI tools worldwide.
Expanding AI Applications
Besides traditional uses like data analysis, AI is now being entrusted with more personal and intriguing roles, such as aiding in romance, education, and work tasks. The survey findings indicate a positive outlook on AI's potential to revolutionize various aspects of life, with 64% of South African respondents considering AI an indispensable tool.
Respondents expressed eagerness to leverage AI for enhancing daily efficiency and productivity, viewing the technology as a reliable companion. Tushkanov underlined AI's evolving capabilities in creative fields, with 53% of participants acknowledging AI as a credible producer of artistic works.
Impact on Human Relationships
AI's integration into daily life is expected to reshape human interactions and experiences. The survey revealed that a majority of respondents believe virtual characters could replace real-life partners, indicating a shift in relationship dynamics. Additionally, many individuals are open to using AI chatbots for online conversations and even assistance in finding romantic partners.
While AI technologies offer innovative solutions and improved experiences, Tushkanov cautioned against potential risks like overreliance on AI advice, phishing attacks, deepfakes, and identity theft. Addressing these challenges is crucial to ensure safe and effective AI utilization.
As AI continues to advance, its role in driving innovation and transforming human experiences becomes more prominent. However, vigilance against emerging threats and maintaining a balance between AI integration and human interaction is essential for a sustainable AI-driven future.
For more insights on AI adoption and technological trends, check out Google trends reveal South Africans keen to grow AI skills.
