University of Cincinnati

01/16/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/16/2026 14:56

How every generation uses AI, from boomers to Gen Z

How every generation uses AI, from boomers to Gen Z

AI use varies widely by generation

6 minute read January 16, 2026 Share on facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share on Reddit Print StoryLike

Artificial intelligence or AI is no longer a future concept - it's already shaping how we work, learn and live.

But enthusiasm for AI isn't evenly distributed across age groups. Gen Zers and millennials are diving in, weaving AI into everything from schoolwork to career-building. Meanwhile, Gen Xers and baby boomers tend to move cautiously, weighing its promise against concerns about trust, privacy and disruption.

Workers brainstorming at UC's 1819 Innovation Hub. Photo/Andrew Higley

At the University of Cincinnati's 1819 Innovation Hub, startup founders, corporate leaders and college students are already using and building with AI. Because of that hands-on exposure, UC offers practical guidance on AI use cases and the guardrails needed to keep people informed and responsible.

Here's a closer look at how each generation views AI, the concerns shaping their attitudes and the ways they're using it.

Gen Z right arrow down arrow

UC students on campus MainStreet. Photo/UC Marketing + Communications

Members of Generation Z aged 16-29 are digital natives for whom AI has quickly become a routine part of their everyday lives. A 2025 survey by Deloitte found that 76% of Gen Zers have used standalone generative AI tools like ChatGPT or Claude, the highest rate of any generation.

A separate 2025 SurveyMonkey poll showed Gen Z using AI most often for education, productivity and entertainment. Education topped the list, with 61% of respondents saying they use AI tools to support learning.

According to the survey, "AI [is] becoming deeply integrated into both work and personal life" for the average Gen Zer. Compared to older generations, Gen Z approaches AI with curiosity rather than caution, focusing on how it can streamline efficiency and improve everyday experiences.

Millennials right arrow down arrow

Man on his laptop. Photo/fizkes via Adobe Stock

Millennials aged 30-45 lag slightly behind Gen Z in AI usage, but adoption remains widespread. The 2025 Deloitte survey found that 58% of millennials have used standalone AI tools, while 60% regularly engage with passive AI embedded in products they already use.

SurveyMonkey's 2025 findings show millennials often turning to AI for fun, hobbies and even mental health tips. That comfort level contrasts with older generations, many of whom remain on the sidelines, too skeptical of AI with personal advice.

Millennials have also led the push to bring AI into the workplace. A 2025 Pew Research Center poll found that 30% use ChatGPT at work. By comparison, just 18% of Gen Xers and boomers report using AI in their day-to-day jobs.

Gen X right arrow down arrow

Couple in their home. Photo/goodluz via Adobe Stock

AI adoption dips with Gen X, aged 46-59. Deloitte found that only 36% have used standalone AI tools while about half, 49%, engage with passive AI features in applications they already use, such as Gmail or Facebook.

AI may not be central to most Gen Xers' routines, but awareness of the technology is high. Pew reports that 78% know about ChatGPT, and more than half, 52%, say they've heard "a lot" about it.

SurveyMonkey describes Gen X as having a "balanced perspective" on AI. Many recognize its value, especially in professional settings, but remain cautious. Gen Xers are hesitant to use AI for personal purposes due to "higher levels of concern about privacy and accuracy."

Boomers right arrow down arrow

Older man speaking with a woman. Photo/Artemenko_Daria

Boomers aged 60-75 are the least likely generation to use or closely follow AI. Just 20% report trying out standalone AI tools, according to Deloitte, a 56% drop from Gen Z adoption rates.

Among boomers who experiment with AI, SurveyMonkey found entertainment-related uses are more common than work-related ones. Retirement likely plays a role, as many no longer need AI as a productivity or career tool.

Still, awareness is growing. About 67% of boomers know about ChatGPT and 35% say they've passively used AI features. Like Gen X, boomers tend to approach AI with caution, often questioning the accuracy of responses and the trustworthiness of the businesses behind the tools.

Bridging generations through AI

Whether people embrace it or resist it, AI is shaping the future. At UC's 1819 Innovation Hub, experts from Microsoft and other companies train students and members of the Cincinnati community on AI, while startup founders use automation to build new products.

Leaders across the Cincinnati Innovation District acknowledge that AI brings both promise and real limitations. UC's primary focus is on training students and community members on responsible use and informed decision-making.

Each generation has something to contribute as AI becomes normalized. The enthusiasm of Gen Z helps drive innovation, while Gen X's skepticism serves as an important check on turning critical work over to outside platforms with limited oversight.

Interested in learning more about AI? Explore UC resources, including:

Featured image at top: Portrait of someone in different generations. Photo/Canto

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University of Cincinnati published this content on January 16, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on January 16, 2026 at 20:56 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]