Survey reveals consumers would use AI to save time and money

“AI is among the technologies that consumers consider using for tangible and more ‘serious’ benefits, as opposed to socialising, projecting self-image and having fun - three common reasons for using other personal technologies,” said Stephanie Baghdassarian, research director at Gartner.

58% of respondents said they would use AI if it helps them save time by taking over some tasks (see image below).

53% said they would use AI if it helps them save money. “We can think of AI being able to look for the best deal for a specific purchase, or find the best route to a particular destination, enabling to save money on toll payments and fuel,” said Ms Baghdassarian.

47% would use AI if it gave them easier access to information, such as travel and transportation directions and details of their everyday consumption of goods.

Consumers are uncomfortable with emotion AI

“Consumers are ready for a new relationship with AI technologies, but have clear preferences about how they want that relationship to occur,” said Anthony Mullen, research director at Gartner.

The survey also found that more than 70% of respondents feel comfortable with AI analysing their vital signs, and with AI identification of voice and facial features to keep transactions secure.

Nevertheless, when it comes to AI examining emotion in voices or facial expressions, 52% of respondents do not want AI to analyse their facial expressions to understand how they feel. Furthermore, 63% do not want AI to take an always-on listening approach to get to know them better.

“Not all consumers are driven by the same motives for letting AI observe them,” said Baghdassarian. “Millennials care about AI understanding them better and adapting interactions based on what they do, feel and need. Baby boomers seek safety and security when they let AI observe them. Generation Xers are close to millennials in terms of attitude toward AI understanding their needs, and close to baby boomers when it comes to safety and security.”

Privacy is a concern

When it comes to privacy, consumers are sceptical about the use of AI and are concerned about what it may mean.

“65% of respondents believe that AI will destroy their privacy, rather than improve it,” said Mullen. “As the shift to communicate with systems from humans to machines will accelerate, IT leaders must tailor AI’s approaches to customer engagement by persona to persona in order to cater for varying views and preferences. In addition, they need to respect user privacy as well as use AI tools to support privacy and transparency goals.”