A recent study conducted by the Reuters Institute and Oxford University has shed light on the actual usage of generative-AI tools, despite the widespread hype surrounding these technologies. The study, which involved 6,000 respondents from six countries, found that while many people have heard of generative-AI products like OpenAI’s ChatGPT, only a small minority are using them regularly.
The study revealed that ChatGPT is the most widely used generative-AI tool, with users range from 1% in Japan to 7% in the US. However, even among these users, only a small portion are using the tool on a daily basis. In fact, the researchers found that between 19% and 30% of the respondents haven’t even heard of any of the most popular generative AI tools.
It appears that younger people are more likely to be using generative-AI tools regularly, with 56% of those between the ages of 18 and 24 having used ChatGPT at least once, compared to just 16% of those aged 55 and over. When it comes to the purpose of using generative-AI tools, the study found that 24% of respondents have used them to obtain information, while 28% have used them to create various kinds of media, including text, audio, code, images, and video.
Despite the limited adoption of generative-AI tools, the researchers believe that their use will continue to grow as more people become aware of their capabilities and as they become integrated into various platforms, such as social media and search engines. In fact, the study notes that Google has recently announced plans to integrate generative-AI technology into its search engine, which could further increase its adoption.
ChatGPT
The researchers also noted that many people are still unsure about the impact of generative-AI technology on their own lives and society, with 28% of respondents expressing uncertainty about its effects. However, younger people and those with higher levels of formal education, who are more likely to have used generative-AI tools, were found to be generally more positive about the technology.
The study suggests that while generative-AI tools have received a lot of attention in recent years, their actual use is still limited and that their adoption will depend on a combination of factors, including awareness, education, and the integration of these tools into various platforms.
The researchers’ conclusions are based on a comprehensive analysis of data from 6,000 respondents from six countries, including the US, UK, France, Denmark, Japan, and Argentina. The study provides valuable insights into the current state of generative-AI technology and its potential for future growth and development.
