Why Most Americans Doubt AI’s Promise and Fear Its Risks

More Americans are using AI chatbots than ever before. Nearly half of US adults—49%—now use some form of chatbot. That’s up from 33% just two years ago. Teens lead the way, with 64% aged 13 to 17 using chatbots and about 30% using them daily.

Despite this growing use, Americans remain deeply skeptical about AI’s impact on society. Only 16% believe AI will have a positive effect over the next 20 years. Meanwhile, 40% expect AI to bring negative consequences. A majority, 77%, view AI as a potential risk to humanity.

Jobs and Trust Are Major Concerns

Many fear AI will cost jobs. About 57% worry AI will eliminate jobs in the next two decades. Even more, 64%, expect job losses. This fear crosses age groups. Young adults aged 18 to 29 use chatbots more than others—66%—yet only 14% of them think AI will benefit society.

Trust is another big problem. Most Americans don’t believe the government can regulate AI well. Exactly 67% lack confidence in government oversight. Similarly, 59% do not trust companies to build AI systems responsibly and safely. This mistrust adds to worries about AI’s rapid growth. About 63% feel AI is advancing too fast.

The Mixed View on AI Benefits

Despite fears, some see promise. For example, 44% of Americans believe AI will improve medical care over the next 20 years. This shows people recognize AI’s potential in certain areas.

Chatbot users also see some upsides. Around 30% say chatbots help increase productivity. About 28% say chatbots help users get better information. Popular chatbots include ChatGPT, used by 44% of chatbot users, Google Gemini at 24%, and Microsoft Copilot at 17%. Others include Meta AI, Grok, and Claude.

Still, the overall mood is cautious. Many Americans worry AI will reduce human connection. Over half, 57%, are highly concerned AI will make people less connected. Interestingly, experts are less worried. Among experts surveyed, only 37% share this concern.

The data shows a clear gap. People use AI tools daily but remain uneasy about their long-term effects. They want benefits but fear the costs. This mix of hope and worry will shape how AI develops and how society adapts in the years ahead.