Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming a regular part of our everyday life – whether we’re searching something on Google or chatting with a smart chatbot for fun. But when it comes to using AI at work, only around one in three Americans are comfortable with it, as per a recent AP-NORC poll conducted between July 10 and 14, 2025. So, what’s holding most people back from using AI at work? Let’s break down the numbers, listen to real experiences, and understand the full picture – all in simple, everyday language!
Most Americans Use AI for Searching, Not for Work – Here’s Why
In a survey of 1,437 adults, 60% of Americans said they use AI to look up information on the internet. That’s not surprising, many of us don’t even notice when AI is helping with our search results! But when it comes to work, only 37% of people use AI for things like writing emails, creating images, or organizing projects. This shows that most people still aren’t using AI to improve the way they work. Why is that? For many, AI seems like a fun tool for personal use, but not something they really need for their job. Some people feel it’s too complicated, or they just don’t see the need for it. If your work is going well without AI, then why even think about using it, right?
Gen Z and Millennials Are Leading the AI Wave
The survey highlights a big gap between different age groups. Young adults under 30 are really into AI — 74% use it to search for things, and 62% use it to brainstorm ideas. But when it comes to people over 60, only 20% have used AI to help with brainstorming ideas. Younger folks, who’ve grown up using smartphones and apps, usually find AI easy to use and even fun to explore.
Take Jake, a 27-year-old video editor from New York. He uses AI to help create rough storyboards for his video projects. It’s like having a helper that’s always ready with new ideas,” He says. Older workers often prefer their usual methods, thinking AI is either too much trouble or not as reliable as their own experience.
AI Companions: Why Young People Are Talking to Chatbots Like Friends
Here’s something interesting, AI as a companion. Just 16% of adults have tried talking to AI like a friend, but among those under 30, about 1 in 4 have already given it a shot. These AI chat buddies can be fun to talk to, especially for young people who felt lonely during the pandemic. But there’s a downside, AI might agree with everything you say, which can affect how you think or even impact your mood if you rely on it too much.
Why AI Isn’t Taking Over the Workplace Just Yet
Tech companies keep promising that AI will transform the way we work, but the survey tells a different story. Only around one-third of people use AI for tasks like writing emails or editing photos, and just 26% use it to help with shopping. So, what’s causing the delay? Take Mia, a 30-year-old coder from Seattle, she has mixed feelings about using AI. She gave AI a try for writing reports but quit because she was afraid it might weaken her writing skills. “And I’ve also heard that AI uses a lot of energy,” she adds. Some people find AI tools tricky to learn or just don’t trust them to work well. Then there’s the sci-fi feel, some people, like Lisa, a 35-year-old nurse from Texas, even talk politely to AI. “I always say ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ – just in case it remembers me someday,” she says with a laugh.
The Future of AI at Work: What’s Holding Us Back and What’s Coming Next?
The survey shows that AI is slowly becoming part of our lives, but it’s not taking over just yet. It’s most useful for searching, and younger users are leading the way with creative and sometimes even friendly uses. But for most people, the way they work hasn’t changed much, it’s still the traditional approach. As AI tools become easier to use and more businesses start using them, more people might give AI a try at work too. For now, people feel a mix of curiosity, hesitation, and a little worry about ‘what if AI takes over? Whether you’re using AI to plan dinner or avoiding it at work, one thing is clear, AI is here to stay, and it’s growing quickly. So, are you using AI at work or sticking to the traditional way of doing things? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
