A new report claims a staggering 74% of consumers trust personal AI agents more than their best friend.
The finding highlights a significant shift in public perception of artificial intelligence, which has struggled to gain widespread trust in the past. It’s a trend that could have major implications for the way we interact with technology, particularly in areas like transactions and customer service.
Agent-centric transactions on the rise
Some 9% of consumers are already comfortable enough with AI agents to let them complete transactions without their approval. This is a notable increase from previous years, and suggests that agentic AI trust is on the rise.
“Successful low-risk transactions hold the key to unlocking higher trust,” says Dr. Emily Chan, lead researcher on the report. “If consumers see AI agents consistently delivering results, they’re more likely to trust them with more complex tasks.” Dr. Chan’s team has been tracking consumer attitudes towards AI for several years, and the data suggests that we’re entering a phase of rapid growth in agentic trust.
So what does this mean for the average consumer? In practical terms, it could mean that we’ll see more AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants handling transactions, from ordering groceries to making travel bookings.
Relying on AI for sensitive tasks
Of course, there are still plenty of areas where humans prefer to take the reins. When it comes to sensitive tasks like healthcare or finance, many consumers are hesitant to let go of human oversight.
However, the report suggests that this is starting to change. Some 44% of consumers are willing to let AI agents handle tasks related to financial services, while 35% are open to the idea of AI-powered healthcare assistants.
A future where humans and AI work together
The growing trust in agentic AI agents could have significant implications for the way we work and live. By leveraging AI to handle mundane or routine tasks, humans may be free to focus on more complex and creative pursuits.
As Dr. Chan puts it, “AI agents are not a replacement for humans, but a complement to our capabilities. By working together, we can unlock a future where technology enhances our lives, rather than replaces it.”
