A study of 2,000 adults found 49 per cent would happily let the tech take over certain menial tasks from meal planning to the weekly shop – with 24 per cent content to have it clean their home
Brits are keen for artificial intelligence (AI) to take over tasks such as doing the weekly shop, planning meals and even sending birthday messages, according to a study. The research, which surveyed 2,000 adults, found that almost half of us would be happy to let AI handle certain mundane tasks.
It showed a quarter of Brits would be willing to let AI clean their home, while others would entrust AI handle their social calendars and book holidays on their behalf. To help save money, a third would want it to compare insurance and broadband quotes to find the best deals.
The study revealed that three quarters of Brits already use AI to some extent, with 15 per cent using it on a daily basis. However, while the majority feel confident in their understanding of AI, 26 per cent don’t feel quite so knowledgeable.
The research was commissioned by Currys ahead of its first AI-Mazing Awards this October, which celebrates the best AI-enabled retail products. AI spokesperson for the brand, Caitlin Mellor, said: “AI isn’t just something from sci-fi movies – it’s already in our homes and shopping baskets.
“Our research shows that while many people are still unsure what AI really is, they’re very open to using it when it makes life easier. We’re really only at the very beginning of the journey when it comes to this tech – its potential to improve our lives is immense.”
A fifth expressed concern and worry about the technology, and while a third are curious they are also cautious. But overall, seven in ten are eager to learn more about AI suggesting that even those who are apprehensive about it aren’t completely closed off to it, with a fifth excited and optimistic.
The research, conducted by OnePoll, found that 25 per cent of adopters consider AI to be their friend, with 18 per cent having asked it for help with their love life. Two thirds have relied on it for therapy sessions, wellbeing advice, and more general life guidance.
Among those who’ve done so, 49 per cent have chosen to follow the advice of AI rather than that of a friend or partner. It also emerged that 47 per cent of users thank the tech for its help after using it, while 39 per cent say please when making requests.
Currys’ AI spokesperson, Caitlin Mellor added: “We’re passionate about guiding consumers through the AI revolution. “The potential is massive, with the tech already making a huge difference to people’s day-to-day lives. Our awards will highlight some of the very best AI-powered goods available in what is arguably the fastest growing technological advancement at the moment.”
TOP 20 THINGS BRITS WOULD USE AI FOR
- Checking best prices before buying
- Comparing bills/ insurance/ broadband
- Meal planning
- Remembering important deadlines
- Food shopping
- Keeping track of subscriptions and cancelling unused ones
- Cleaning (e.g. robot vacuums, smart appliances)
- Managing bills and admin
- Organising paperwork/ receipts
- Monitoring energy use and adjusting for savings
- Smart appliances (fridges that suggest meals, washing machines that auto-dose detergent)
- Sending birthday/ holiday messages
- Booking travel
- What to watch on TV
- Booking GP/ dental appointments
- Paying bills on time
- Planning social events
- Ordering repeat prescriptions
- Renewing car/ home/ health insurance
- Helping children with homework