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Thursday, Aug 20, 2026
Outside the box.
Public Uptake of AI Tools Remains Limited
A study by Reuters Institute and Oxford University found that only a small fraction of people use AI tools like ChatGPT daily, with young people being the most active users. Despite significant investment, 30% of UK respondents have not heard of leading AI products. The public is generally optimistic about AI in science and healthcare but wary of its impact on news and job security.
A recent study by the Reuters Institute and Oxford University reveals that only a small segment of the population regularly uses highly publicized AI tools like ChatGPT.
The survey, which included 12,000 participants across six countries including the UK, found that just 2% of British respondents use these tools daily.
The research indicates that young people aged 18 to 24 are the most engaged with AI technology.
Dr. Richard Fletcher, the study's lead author, noted a mismatch between the public interest and the media hype around AI.
Generative AI, which gained prominence with the launch of ChatGPT in November 2022, has seen billions invested by tech companies.
However, 30% of UK respondents have not heard of leading AI products.
The study found that while most expect AI to have a significant societal impact within five years, opinions vary on whether the technology will positively or negatively affect their lives.
Public optimism is higher for AI usage in science and healthcare but lower for its impact on news and job security.
Fletcher emphasized the importance of nuanced discussions involving governments and regulators.
The survey, which included 12,000 participants across six countries including the UK, found that just 2% of British respondents use these tools daily.
The research indicates that young people aged 18 to 24 are the most engaged with AI technology.
Dr. Richard Fletcher, the study's lead author, noted a mismatch between the public interest and the media hype around AI.
Generative AI, which gained prominence with the launch of ChatGPT in November 2022, has seen billions invested by tech companies.
However, 30% of UK respondents have not heard of leading AI products.
The study found that while most expect AI to have a significant societal impact within five years, opinions vary on whether the technology will positively or negatively affect their lives.
Public optimism is higher for AI usage in science and healthcare but lower for its impact on news and job security.
Fletcher emphasized the importance of nuanced discussions involving governments and regulators.
