Recently, Prime Minister Sir Kier Starmer revealed his plans to use AI to boost growth across the country. The PM has highlighted how artificial intelligence presents a ‘vast potential’ for rejuvenating UK public services, stating that AI has “the power to transform the lives of working people.”
But what does the UK really feel about the upcoming AI revolution?
TalkTalk surveyed 2,003 UK residents revealing a rapidly evolving relationship when it comes to artificial intelligence. Some of the survey’s key findings follow:
- Widespread Adoption: Half of respondents [LH1] are familiar with AI in 2024, with 18% using it weekly and 15% daily. Younger generations (16-44) show significantly higher familiarity and usage.
- Concerns Remain: While adoption is growing, concerns persist around AI in sensitive areas like self-driving cars (where 50% are uncomfortable)
- Comfort Zones: People are more comfortable with AI for personalised shopping recommendations (42%), learning assistance (42%), and customer service chatbots (39%).
- Browsing Boost: 49% use AI for online browsing, taking advantage of features like AI-powered search, text-to-speech, and translation.
- Online Shopping and Entertainment: AI is also popular for online shopping (29%), social media (28%), and streaming music (27%).
TalkTalk has partnered with AI Director Eleanor Manley for her perspective. Eleanor is an award-winning AI expert and frequent speaker at international conferences, including NATO. She has been instrumental in developing cutting-edge AI strategies for leading brands and is a recognized thought leader in the field. Her expertise spans various areas of AI, including natural language processing, machine learning, and computer vision. Eleanor’s extensive list of awards and features can be found on her Portfolio. Eleanor states:
“The way we think about artificial intelligence (AI) has changed dramatically in recent years, and 2025 is set to bring a new transformation. Back in November 2022, over one million people explored Generative AI within just a week of ChatGPT’s release. Since then, waves of AI advancements have shown us how this technology can help create extraordinary everyday solutions.
“Beyond niche applications to becoming a ubiquitous presence that enhances our daily routines, AI is here to stay. From simplifying internet searches to curating personalised shopping experiences, AI is no longer a background technology but a tool that people actively use to enrich themselves, learn new skills and make life more convenient.”
Eleanor Manley’s key takeaways on the survey results:
- AI is Everywhere, Even if Unnoticed: AI quietly powers many of our daily interactions, but not everyone recognises its presence.
- Younger Generations Lead the Way: The 25-34 age group stands out as the most familiar with and frequent users of AI, benefiting from both professional integration and lifestyle habits
- Tech Hubs Drive Engagement: Cities like London and Manchester lead in AI familiarity and usage, while smaller cities and rural areas often lag behind
- Occupation Shapes Engagement: Professionals in IT, Finance and Marketing are the most familiar with and frequent users of AI, while healthcare and education sectors show room for growth.
Eleanor’s perspective can be found with the rest of the survey results here: https://www.talktalk.co.uk/news/age-of-ai
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