Microsoft’s latest Global Online Safety Survey has revealed that 65% of Indians have used generative AI tools in 2024, more than double the global average of 31%. The survey highlights India’s increasing adoption of AI for translation, question answering, workplace productivity, and academic support.
The survey, conducted between July and August 2023, gathered responses from 14,800 individuals, including teenagers, parents, and other adults across 15 countries. It found that AI adoption in India is led by millennials (ages 25-44), with 84% of them using AI, marking a 15% increase from 2023. Additionally, weekly AI usage in India has grown by 20% to 71%.
Indian users primarily leverage AI for translation (69%), question answering (67%), workplace productivity (66%), and assisting children with schoolwork (64%). However, concerns persist regarding AI-related risks, including online abuse (76%), deepfakes (74%), scams (73%), and AI hallucinations (70%). Notably, over 80% of respondents expressed concerns about minors using AI.
Indian parents are becoming increasingly aware of online threats, with 78% acknowledging that their children face risks online. Furthermore, 61% of Indian parents feel comfortable discussing these risks with their children, significantly higher than the global average of 41%.
Indian teenagers are also taking proactive steps to mitigate online risks. According to the survey, 84% block or unfriend suspicious accounts, 65% report issues, and 85% talk to someone, usually their parents, about online threats.
This report underscores India’s rapid AI adoption and highlights the need for continued awareness and safety measures in the digital space.