How opinions and use of AI differ by age

A Pew Research Center survey of over 5,000 U.S. adults in February 2026 highlights stark differences in how age groups perceive and interact with artificial intelligence. Younger adults, particularly those aged 18-29, are the most skeptical about AI’s long-term impact on society, with 48% believing it will be negative compared to just 14% who think it will be positive. In contrast, older age groups—50 and above—show slightly more optimism, though a majority still lean negative, and those 65+ are the most uncertain, with 21% unsure about AI’s societal effects. Chatbot usage also varies sharply by age. About 63% of adults under 50 use chatbots, compared to just 40% of those aged 50-64 and fewer among those 65+. Daily usage is highest among younger adults, with 31% of 18-29-year-olds and 34% of 30-49-year-olds reporting daily engagement, while only 7% of those 65+ do so. ChatGPT leads as the most popular chatbot across all demographics, though adoption is highest among younger users (44% of 18-29-year-olds). The survey also found that majorities across all age groups believe AI is advancing too quickly, with 61-65% agreeing with this statement. Younger adults are more likely to think AI will negatively impact them personally (37% of 18-29-year-olds vs. 28% of those 65+), while older adults tend to be more neutral or uncertain about both personal and societal impacts. Despite generational differences, the data shows rising chatbot use across all age groups since 2024, particularly among those in their 30s and 40s, who now match younger adults in adoption rates. However, concerns about AI’s pace and potential consequences remain widespread, underscoring a need for balanced public discourse on its development and integration into daily life.