1 in 5 adults under 30 say they get emotional support from chatbots, higher than for older adults
% of U.S. adults who say they ever use AI chatbots …
Note: Employed refers to those working full or part time for pay at the time of the survey.
Source: Survey of U.S. adults conducted Feb. 17-23, 2026.
“Americans and AI 2026: Chatbots, Smart Devices and Views on Impact”
“Americans and AI 2026: Chatbots, Smart Devices and Views on Impact”
PEW RESEARCH CENTER
1 in 5 adults under 30 say they get emotional support from chatbots, higher than for older adults
% of U.S. adults who say they ever use AI chatbots …
| Ages 18-29 | 30-49 | 50-64 | 65+ | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| To search for information | 54% | 53% | 37% | 20% |
| For tasks at work (among employed adults) | 41% | 43% | 29% | 18% |
| To create or edit images or videos | 34% | 34% | 18% | 5% |
| For fun or entertainment | 33% | 36% | 20% | 7% |
| To get diet and fitness information | 30% | 25% | 14% | 7% |
| To get medical advice | 27% | 25% | 17% | 11% |
| For emotional support or advice | 20% | 13% | 4% | 2% |
| To get news | 15% | 17% | 13% | 8% |
| For companionship | 7% | 6% | 2% | 1% |
Note: Employed refers to those working full or part time for pay at the time of the survey.
Source: Survey of U.S. adults conducted Feb. 17-23, 2026.
“Americans and AI 2026: Chatbots, Smart Devices and Views on Impact”
“Americans and AI 2026: Chatbots, Smart Devices and Views on Impact”
PEW RESEARCH CENTER
