Artificial intelligence is everywhere in 2025—from product recommendations to customer service chatbots. But what do consumers really think about AI? Are people ready to embrace this technology, or are privacy concerns, trust issues, and the desire for human interaction holding them back?
Recent surveys reveal that consumer attitudes toward AI in 2025 are deeply divided. On a global level, 63% of shoppers say AI is helpful for product recommendations, yet 45% still dislike interacting with AI systems during online shopping, and 25% worry about scams or fraud. This shows that while AI is appreciated for convenience and personalization, a significant number of consumers are still wary of replacing human touch with algorithms.
In the United States, the picture is cautiously optimistic. 56% of shoppers report that AI was helpful for their most recent purchase, with even higher approval (64%) in categories like furniture. However, trust remains fragile: 58% of U.S. consumers say their biggest concern is how AI handles personal data. Privacy and data protection have become defining issues for AI adoption, making it clear that usefulness alone is not enough—brands must also prove they are trustworthy.
Australia tells a more skeptical story. While 40% of Australians feel excited about AI-powered products and services, a much larger share—67%—say they feel nervous about it. Even more striking, 78% worry about negative consequences of AI, and 77% demand stronger regulation. With only 49% approving of AI and just 36% willing to trust it, Australia highlights the global challenge of winning over consumers who see both the promise and the potential risks of artificial intelligence.
Across markets, the themes are consistent: trust, privacy, and the human experience. Consumers like AI when it helps simplify decisions, save time, or enhance personalization, but they are reluctant to rely on it without guarantees of data protection and transparency. Many also want to keep human support in the loop, reminding companies that empathy and accountability cannot be automated.
The bottom line? Consumer preferences for AI in 2025 reflect cautious curiosity. People appreciate the benefits of AI but remain skeptical about privacy, security, and the potential loss of human interaction. For businesses, the opportunity lies in balancing innovation with responsibility. Those that use AI to empower consumers—while protecting their data and offering transparency—will be the ones who earn lasting trust in an AI-driven world.
