A recent survey conducted by Ericsson sheds light on consumers’ perceptions and expectations regarding the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in their lives over the next decade. The survey, based on responses from 6,500 early adopters across 13 global cities, identifies ten key AI trends anticipated for the 2030s.
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding AI’s potential to revolutionize various aspects of daily life, a significant majority of respondents expressed apprehension about their control over the technology. Divided into two groups—’AI hopefuls’ and ‘AI fearfuls’—over half of the participants believe they will lack full control over the impact of AI by the 2030s.
Among the AI hopefuls, only 37% expressed confidence in having control over AI’s utilization in their lives, a sentiment that drops to 27% among the AI fearfuls. Nevertheless, both groups acknowledge the profound influence AI is poised to exert, with 53% of hopefuls and 26% of fearfuls indicating their intention to embrace AI technologies.
The survey underscores the uncertainty surrounding future AI adoption patterns, especially considering the unpredictability of early adopters’ behaviors. Despite the rapid growth in AI usage, exemplified by OpenAI’s ChatGPT reaching 100 million monthly active users within months of its launch, consumer expectations remain pivotal in shaping AI’s trajectory.
Michael Björn, Head of Research Agenda at Ericsson Consumer & IndustryLab, emphasizes the need for companies to address consumer concerns regarding data control and personal integrity amidst the AI revolution. The survey highlights the significance of data regulation, with 76% of AI hopefuls advocating for new laws to safeguard privacy and autonomy.
Furthermore, the report warns of potential dystopian scenarios where AI encroaches upon personal identity, fueling fears among 74% of AI fearfuls. While AI promises to enhance various aspects of life, from entertainment to governance, the report suggests that ignoring certain AI insights could emerge as a strategy for success in the future.
As the world navigates the evolving landscape of AI integration, Ericsson’s survey underscores the importance of balancing technological advancement with ethical considerations and consumer empowerment to ensure a future where humans retain agency in decision-making processes.
