*Image generated by ChatGPT

Public sentiment toward artificial intelligence has soured dramatically in the United States, even as adoption of AI chatbots continues to climb.

A comprehensive new survey by Pew Research Center highlights a striking disconnect: while nearly half of American adults now engage with tools like ChatGPT, widespread use has done little to ease deep-seated concerns about the technology’s broader effects.

Only 16 percent of respondents believe AI will have a positive impact on society, the poll found. In contrast, 40 percent anticipate a negative effect overall, with 31 percent expecting it to harm their personal lives as well.

Usage has risen sharply. Some 49 percent of adults report using AI chatbots, up from 33 percent in 2024, with a quarter saying they turn to them daily. ChatGPT remains dominant. Yet this growing familiarity appears to be fueling skepticism rather than acceptance.

The wariness is especially pronounced among younger Americans. Gen Z adults aged 18 to 29 are the most likely to view AI negatively for society, with 48 percent expressing concern, despite 66 percent of them using the tools. Older groups show somewhat less pessimism but lower usage rates.

The Pew poll underscores a troubling trend for the AI industry. As one analysis in the Futurism report notes, “If no one likes AI years or decades from now, will there be enough customers to keep the industry running?”