Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly embedded in Canadians' daily lives, but wider adoption has yet to translate into greater confidence in the technology's broader impact, according to a survey by the Angus Reid Institute released Thursday.
The Angus Reid survey found that "Canadians are more likely to view AI with skepticism than enthusiasm," despite rising adoption. The share of Canadians using AI tools several times a day has increased to 16%, up from 10% in November.
Concerns over AI's broader societal impact remain widespread, with 56% of Canadians saying it is more likely to increase inequality than the 7% who say it may promote equality, added Angus Reid. Meanwhile, 68% disagree that everyone has an equal opportunity to benefit from AI.
AI adoption also highlights a growing divide across income and education levels, according to the survey. Higher-income and university-educated Canadians are more likely to actively use AI tools, while lower-income and less-educated groups are more likely to encounter AI indirectly through built-in platforms or remain uncertain about their use of it.
The survey was carried out between May 7 and 11, among a randomized sample of 1,842 Canadian adults.