Premium

Microsoft report reveals 65% of Indians used Gen AI in 2024, parents more aware of AI risks

Microsoft, on Safer Internet Day, released its Global Safety Survey report highlighting the views of parents and teens.

India is using AI for translation services, getting questions answered, increasing efficiency at work, and helping students with schoolwork. (Image: FreePik)

Zia LLM is currently undergoing internal testing. (Image: FreePik)

More Indians are embracing generative AI. Microsoft on Tuesday announced the 9th edition of its Global Online Safety Survey, which sheds light on how people are using generative AI. According to the report, 65 per cent of people in India have used generative AI, more than double the 31 per cent global average in the same period.

Interestingly, most Indians are using AI for translation, getting questions answered, enhancing productivity at work, and even helping students with schoolwork. Indian parents too are showing greater awareness compared to 2023.

The survey was conducted by gathering data via a web survey of 14,800 teens, parents of six to 17-year-olds, and other adults across 15 countries between July 19 and August 9, 2024. With regards to India, the survey highlights how AI’s influence is growing. However, Indian users have a few reservations with AI, especially concerning online abuse, deepfakes, scams, and AI hallucinations.

Story continues below this ad

Also Read | Banned Chinese apps like Xender and TanTan are back, but TikTok is still missing

According to the report, when it comes to AI adoption, millennials (ages 25-44) lead with 84 per cent usage, which is a 15 per cent increase from 2023. Similarly, weekly generative AI usage rose by 20 per cent to 71 per cent. As many as 62 per cent feel highly familiar with the technology, up 19 per cent from last year. When it comes to use cases, translation tools stand at 69 per cent, answering questions at 67 per cent, workplace efficiency at 66 per cent, and assisting students with schoolwork at 64 per cent.

When it comes to concerns related to AI, online abuse tops the list at 76 per cent, deepfakes at 74 per cent, scams at 73 per cent and AI hallucinations at 70 per cent. According to the report, over 80 per cent of respondents said that they worry about AI usage for children under 18 years.

The report underscores how Indian parents are highly aware and prepared to address online risks faced by their teens. As many as 78 per cent parents estimated that their children encountered such challenges, and 61 per cent feel confident about discussing them compared to 41 per cent globally. It also revealed that 82 per cent of Indian teens reported facing online risks.

When it comes to handling online risks, teens seem to be adopting a proactive approach. About 85 per cent said that they respond to such risks by talking to someone (often parents), 84 per cent block or unfriend accounts, and 65 per cent report the issue. Despite features like blocking and muting, Indian teens mostly seek parental support while dealing with online threats.

Loading Taboola...

H-1B $100,000 entry fee explained: Who pays, who’s exempt, and what’s still unclear?

Explained3 hr ago

The White House's decision to impose a $100,000 entry fee on H-1B visa holders has sparked worry among Indian tech workers and students. While uncertainties remain about its implementation and exemptions, major tech companies have cautioned employees against traveling. The policy could lead to a shift towards other visa categories and potentially change the STEM immigration pipeline.

View all shorts

Live Blog