American public opinion on artificial intelligence is evenly divided, but there are significant differences in attitudes and use of AI along income, age, and racial and ethnic lines. Most Americans have yet to try using generative AI tools, but they are forming skeptical opinions about the new technology. Tech companies should expect persistent trust headwinds as they work to develop AI markets. Democrats are more optimistic than Republicans about AI, and the use of AI in the workplace is both sensitive and divisive.
A different study by Maveron and A/B Consulting found that American consumer sentiment about AI is divided, with 37% excited and 40% fearful of AI. Trust in AI is higher among millennials and those with higher household incomes. The survey also revealed insights about technology adoption among millennials, including their higher use of generative AI, cryptocurrency, electric cars, and personalized health apps.
France is investing in open-source AI to compete in the global AI industry and create a domestic AI industry. The French government hopes to attract private investors with a €40 million investment in open-source AI projects and €500 million in creating AI “champions.” France is taking advantage of an EU loophole that exempts open-source AI systems from strict compliance rules, but industry leaders are skeptical that the exemption will give them enough running room. Despite this, French officials see open-source AI as a way to take on the overwhelming power of U.S.-based firms in the AI industry.
Why do we care?
I don’t think it’s a positive sign that this technology is becoming political. I’m not bringing this up to get political but instead to highlight that it is becoming a hot-button issue. Providers should consider this in their conversations with customers.
I highlight France’s investment to show that competition will come in multiple ways.