The Verge·Apr 30, 2026

🤖AI's Popularity Plummets Among Gen Z

Young adults are turning against AI en masse

TL;DR

A new survey reveals a significant drop in Gen Z's optimism about AI, with only 18% hopeful and 22% excited. Despite high usage rates, many feel AI hinders real learning and job prospects.

Young adults are increasingly disillusioned with artificial intelligence (AI), according to recent surveys. Only 18% of Gen Z workers now express hope for AI's future, down from 27% last year. This shift is driven by concerns that AI tools like chatbots prevent critical thinking and make learning more difficult. Despite high usage rates—74% use a chatbot monthly—the majority believe AI risks outweigh benefits. Universities are also facing backlash as they integrate AI into curricula, often without clear benefits for students.

AI's Popularity Plummets Among Gen Z

Key Points

1

Only 18% of Gen Z workers are now optimistic about AI’s future, down from 27% last year

2

74% of young adults use chatbots monthly despite concerns over critical thinking skills

3

56% believe AI helps them finish work faster but admit it makes learning harder in the long run

4

University administrations are pushing new 'AI' majors by consolidating computer science and engineering departments

5

Arizona State University uses a beta tool called ASU Atomic to synthesize lectures into bite-sized materials

Why It Matters

Young adults, who were once early adopters of AI, now feel it hinders learning and job prospects. This shift impacts university curricula as administrations push new 'AI' majors without clear benefits for students.

gen-zai-backlashchatbotsuniversity-curriculum

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does this matter?

Young adults, who were once early adopters of AI, now feel it hinders learning and job prospects. This shift impacts university curricula as administrations push new 'AI' majors without clear benefits for students.

What happened?

A new survey reveals a significant drop in Gen Z's optimism about AI, with only 18% hopeful and 22% excited. Despite high usage rates, many feel AI hinders real learning and job prospects.

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