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Will the great AI device race close the generational confidence gap?

A photographic portrait of Katherine Boiciuc
Katherine Boiciuc

EY Regional Chief Technology and Innovation Officer, Oceania

3 minute read 28 Jul. 2024
Related topics
AI
Future consumer index
Consumer Products

The AI device race is a phenomenon that is set to redefine our interaction with technology. But how are different generations responding to this rapidly accelerating pace of change? As we look to embrace the transformative potential of AI, here is how the generational confidence gap needs to be addressed.

In brief:

  • The race to incorporate ChatGPT technology into devices is creating a pivotal moment in the Generative AI (GenAI) landscape.
  • It is crucial to address the trust deficit surrounding these technologies with appropriate customer-informed AI consent, supported by the relevant law and regulations to ensure consequences to those that breach this trust.

This article first appeared on LinkedIn.

with Apple's recent announcement to integrate ChatGPT technology into its devices, including the Siri virtual assistant, we are witnessing a pivotal moment in the generative AI landscape. This strategic move catapults Apple into the competitive arena alongside tech behemoths like Microsoft, HP and Google.

Transforming virtual assistants for Australians

The implications of this AI evolution for Australians are profound and multifaceted. We anticipate a transformative enhancement in virtual assistants' capabilities, with Siri poised to offer AI powered services to a population already used to asking Siri for help. However, our Future Consumer Index Report revealed a generational divide in confidence levels regarding AI adoption. 

Confidence in AI across the generations:

of Baby Boomers
of Generation X
of Millennials
of Generation Z

Only 6% of Baby Boomers, 10% of Generation X, 18% of Millennials and 33% of Generation Z expressed confidence in AI. This gap underscores the need for targeted skill development initiatives to ensure that all Australians are equipped to harness the potential of AI in their personal and professional lives. 

How EY can help

Redefining user experience and addressing privacy and trust concerns

 

This great AI device race is a leap forward in AI integration into devices we already trust, like our laptops and mobile phones. It will not only redefine the user experience of these devices but also promises to amplify productivity across all sectors, aiding Australians in tasks ranging from the mundane to the highly creative.

 

However, this technological leap does not come without its challenges. Privacy and data security remain paramount, particularly for a company like Apple, which prides itself on user privacy. The integration of sophisticated AI into everyday devices necessitates a robust conversation around the safeguarding of personal information.

 

As we navigate the AI device race, it is imperative to address the trust deficit surrounding these technologies with appropriate customer-informed AI consent, supported by the relevant law and regulations to ensure consequences to those that breach this trust. Transparency, accountability, compliance, and the ethical use of AI are the cornerstones of building public trust and fostering responsible implementation. 

Level of understanding of AI solutions and its uses – Australia and global 2024

Future Consumer Index

Discover EY's latest insights around changing consumer sentiments

Learn More

EY Australia’s commitment

At EY Australia, we are committed to leading the charge in this new era, help ensuring that Australians are not only ready to adopt AI at scale but also to do so with confidence and competence.

We need to bridge the generational AI confidence gap, help enable all Australians to embrace the transformative potential of AI, while upholding the highest standards of privacy, security, and ethical practices. 

Summary

As we navigate the AI device race, it is imperative to address the trust deficit surrounding these technologies with appropriate customer-informed AI consent, supported by the relevant law and regulations to ensure consequences to those that breach this trust.

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    About this article

    A photographic portrait of Katherine Boiciuc
    Katherine Boiciuc
    EY Regional Chief Technology and Innovation Officer, Oceania
    Technologist. Futurist. Passionate about NFTs, leadership, and imagineering.
    Related topics
    AI
    Future consumer index
    Consumer Products

    EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more, of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients.