Only 16% of Americans Believe AI Will Have Positive Impact

TechCrunch reports on a new study showing that just 16% of American adults believe AI will have a positive effect on society. The survey, conducted by the Pew Research Center, found that 52% expect negative impacts, while 32% are uncertain. Concerns include job displacement, privacy erosion, and misinformation. The study also notes that political affiliation influences views: Republicans are more skeptical than Democrats. The findings underscore a significant trust gap between the tech industry's optimism and public sentiment. The authors suggest that AI companies need to address concrete harms and improve transparency to rebuild trust.