Nearly two-thirds of Americans believe artificial intelligence is progressing too fast, according to a Pew Research poll released Tuesday. The survey of U.S. adults found that 63% think the technology is advancing at an excessive pace, while only 16% expect AI to have a positive impact on society.
Chatbot adoption has risen sharply, with 49% of respondents now reporting regular use—up from 33% in 2024. ChatGPT in particular has doubled its user base since 2023, with 44% of Americans saying they have tried the tool. Yet the growing familiarity has not translated into confidence: negative sentiment dominates across age groups.
Younger generations, who are the heaviest AI users, are also the most pessimistic. The poll reveals a generational divide in attitudes, though precise breakdowns by age were not provided in the available data. The findings suggest that hands-on experience with AI may be reinforcing concerns rather than alleviating them.
The results pose a challenge for tech companies betting on mass adoption. While Wall Street has poured capital into AI ventures, everyday Americans remain wary—a disconnect that could slow deployment or invite stronger regulation. Policymakers may cite the survey as evidence that public safeguards are needed.
"The industry faces a trust gap that usage alone won't close," a Pew researcher noted. Without addressing broader societal fears, the AI boom risks alienating the very users it depends on.