A new survey from Leeds-based STRAT7 Researchbods has found that UK consumers are becoming more positive about artificial intelligence.
The study of 1500 people builds on its research from last year, which looked at how public attitudes towards AI were evolving – across daily life and the workplace.
Its key findings were that there was growing optimism, with consumer perception of AI increasing to a +28% net positive score across all generations (up 10 points from last year). While younger generations remain the most optimistic, older generations are not necessarily negative – many are still forming their opinions.
However, fewer than a third of people have used AI themselves, though adoption is significantly higher among students (60%).
Compared to last year, more people believe AI will have more of a positive impact than negative (+42% in 2025 vs. 35% in 2024) and simplify life (+48% vs. 43%). They are also less worried about its risks (concern levels dropped from 58% to 50%).
Some of the major fears appear to have slightly reduced as well. While nearly half of those surveyed remain wary of misuse, that’s still down from 57% last year. Concerns over job losses and AI making decisions without human oversight persist but have declined from last year.
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In the workplace, a third of working adults have used AI at work. 38% report positive effects, such as improved efficiency, reduced repetitive tasks, and support for product development and innovation.
The greatest benefits are seen in financial services, manufacturing, construction, retail, and telecoms.
Half of workers say they have witnessed AI’s potential to free up humans for more creative and strategic tasks. However, over half say they need more training to use AI effectively, and many remain hesitant to trust their employer’s ethical use of AI.
“This year’s study highlights a clear shift in AI perceptions, with growing recognition of its benefits,” said Sarah Askew, Innovation Director at STRAT7 Researchbods.
“However, trust and training remain crucial to ensuring AI is adopted responsibly and effectively, both in daily life and the workplace.”
The full report is called AI’s evolution: emerging attitudes and its adoption in the workplace.
