Americans Embrace AI Tools While Wary of Risks

A Pew Research Center survey of 5,119 U.S. adults (Feb 17–23, 2026) finds about half now use AI chatbots (roughly 25% daily), and about one in three own AI-enabled smart speakers, with others having AI-capable doorbells or thermostats; ChatGPT remains the dominant chatbot. Use is higher among under-50s. People say chatbots boost productivity and information, but are less convinced they enhance creativity, while many worry AI will threaten personal data security and that it’s advancing too quickly. Confidence in government to regulate AI and in companies to develop it responsibly is low, with Democrats more skeptical about regulation than Republicans.