The AI Age Gap, Explained

Pew Research Center surveyed 5,119 U.S. adults in February 2026 and found an AI age split: chatbot use is rising across generations, younger adults use tools most but are most skeptical, and older adults are least likely to use chatbots and most likely to be unsure about AI impact.

1. Frame 1Pew says a 5,119-adult survey shows AI shifting public concern, use, and uncertainty by generation.
2. Frame 2Adoption map: chatbot use rose since 2024, reaching 66% for 18-29s, 61% for 30-49s, and 23% for 65+.
3. Frame 3Daily-use gate: routine chatbot use now clears 31% for 18-29s and 34% for 30-49s.
4. Frame 4Risk threshold: 48% of 18-29s expect negative societal impact, while 14% expect a positive one.
5. Frame 5Uncertainty path: 65+ adults use chatbots least, and 29% are unsure about AI's personal impact.
6. Frame 6Speed tradeoff: adoption rises, but every age group says AI is moving too quickly, from 61% to 65%.