Generative AI is rapidly shifting from a novelty to an everyday tool, but new research suggests adoption numbers alone don’t capture the full picture.
Generative AI is rapidly shifting from a novelty to an everyday tool, but new research suggests adoption numbers alone don’t capture the full picture.
Cisco, the global leader in networking and security, has partnered with the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) through the Digital Well-being Hub to better understand how AI is influencing lives worldwide, including the risks and benefits that come with increasing digital dependence.
The latest findings highlight growing geographic and generational divides in AI use. While younger adults across the globe continue to dominate digital consumption, especially in terms of social media activity, device usage, and generative AI engagement, emerging economies are showing particularly strong momentum.
Respondents from India, Brazil, Mexico and South Africa reported the highest trust in AI, the highest adoption rates, and the greatest participation in AI training. This trend marks a noticeable shift from the past, where advanced economies typically led early adoption of new technologies
At the same time, these same emerging markets are experiencing greater digital strain. Individuals in these countries report the longest recreational screen time, the highest levels of digital-only social interactions, and the most significant emotional fluctuations tied to technology use.
Globally, the study notes a correlation between more than five hours of recreational screen time per day and reduced well-being, signaling the need for stronger focus on digital health as AI grows more pervasive.
“Empowering emerging economies with AI skills is not just about technology, it’s about unlocking the potential of every individual to shape their future. With the rapid integration of AI into our daily lives and workplaces, we must ensure that these tools are designed responsibly, with transparency, fairness, and privacy at their core. AI’s greatest potential can be realized if it enhances well-being, by streamlining tasks, improving collaboration, and creating opportunities for growth and learning. When technology, people, and purpose come together, we create the conditions for resilient, healthy, and thriving communities everywhere,”
said Guy Diedrich, Senior Vice President and Global Innovation Officer, Cisco.
Generational differences mirror these disparities. Over half of respondents under 35 use AI actively, with a majority viewing it as beneficial and nearly half having completed some form of AI training. Meanwhile, adults over 45 are far less engaged.
Many respondents above 55 said they “don’t know” whether they trust AI, a sign that unfamiliarity, rather than distrust, may be driving their hesitation.
Cisco says these insights will guide its Digital Impact Office and initiatives such as Cisco Networking Academy and Country Digital Acceleration programs.
The research underscores a clear call to action: governments, businesses and communities must work together to close digital skills gaps, strengthen digital literacy across age groups, and prioritize well-being alongside technological innovation to ensure an inclusive digital future for all.
