A survey conducted by Elon University in the United States reveals that 52% of American adults have used large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, and Copilot.
The survey, carried out in January by Elon University's Imagining the Digital Future initiative in North Carolina, polled 500 respondents. The results showed that among those who have used AI, 34% reported using LLMs at least once a day. ChatGPT was the most popular, used by 72% of respondents; Google's Gemini came in second at 50%.
Image Source: AI-generated image, licensed from Midjourney
A growing number of people are forming unique relationships with AI chatbots. The survey indicates that 38% of users believe LLMs can form deep connections with humans, and over half have engaged in conversations with chatbots. Approximately 9% of users primarily use these models for social interaction, such as casual conversation and companionship. Users also noted that these models can exhibit a range of personality traits, including confidence, curiosity, and humor.
“These findings lay the groundwork for the co-evolution of humans and AI systems in the coming years,” said Lee Rainie, director of the Imagining the Digital Future initiative, in an interview with NBC News. “These tools are integrating into daily life in an emotionally intimate and impactful way, clearly becoming part of a new chapter in human history.”
The survey also found that 51% of respondents used LLMs for personal purposes rather than work. In work settings, respondents integrated AI with office software such as Slack, PowerPoint, and Zoom, using it for tasks like composing emails, brainstorming ideas, and summarizing documents; over half believe this improved their work efficiency.
However, many respondents also expressed concerns. 63% believe LLMs will significantly reduce human-to-human interaction, and 59% worry about potential mass unemployment. While AI chatbots offer convenience in both personal and professional lives, they also raise important questions about their future development, warranting continued attention.
### Key Takeaways
- 📊**Usage**: 52% of American adults have used AI large language models, with 34% of users employing them at least daily. ChatGPT is the most popular, boasting a 72% usage rate.
- 👬**Relationship Building**: 38% of users believe AI large language models can form deep relationships with humans, and 9% use them for social interaction. Over half of users have conversed with chatbots.
- 😟**Concerns Highlighted**: 63% of respondents worry that AI will decrease human interaction, and 59% fear significant job losses.
