Study: More than half of Singaporeans are excited about AI's potential

Over half (58%) of Singaporeans are thrilled about the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in the future, with 42% concerned about its risks, according to a new survey by Ipsos and Google.  The global study "Our Life with AI: From innovation to application", surveyed 21,000 people across 21 countries, including Singapore, finding that global AI usage has jumped to 48% and excitement about its potential now exceeds concerns.

According to a sample of 1,000 Singaporeans, the survey found that 59% of Singapore residents have used generative AI in the last year, showing a 10% increase as compared to 2023 (49%). This statistic is above the global average of 48%. 

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Generative AI usage varies and goes beyond experimenting with the technology, with the study showing that Singaporeans are using it not only to entertain but to support their work, personal projects, and education.

The study also found that Singaporeans remain highly optimistic about AI's economic impact and its potential to drive progress in key areas such as science and medicine. A growing majority (72%) believe AI will personally benefit them, an increase from 67% last year and exceeding the global average of 59%. 

Furthermore, Singaporeans seemingly prioritise AI-driven advancements in fields such science and medicine (54%) over regulatory measures aimed at protecting industries that may be disrupted by AI (46%). Around 8 in 10 Singaporeans are noted to be excited about AI's ability to simplify online information access, with 74% seeing value in AI-powered personal assistants for managing daily tasks and 72% being drawn to its potential as a personalised tutor. 

Professionally, AI is being viewed as more than just a productivity booster but also as a tool for strategic elevation. With 75% Singaporean AI users already leveraging it for work, AI is being actively used to enhance writing, brainstorming, and problem-solving.

Furthermore, it's proving invaluable for digesting complex information and lengthy documents. This widespread adoption across diverse applications highlights the transformative impact AI is having in Singapore.

Looking ahead, 72% of Singaporeans expect AI to have a positive impact on science and medicine, leading a list of promising applications including agriculture and cybersecurity.

Lastly, the survey found that Singaporeans believe the government is effectively harnessing the potential of AI, particularly in the realm of public services. With 78% expressing confidence in their government's efforts to leverage AI for economic benefit, there is widespread support for public-private partnerships in this domain. Notably, 82% of Singaporeans endorse government collaboration with AI companies, and 81% support joint efforts to test AI tools for government services.

This forward-thinking approach extends to infrastructure development as well, with 80% advocating for government investment in critical areas such as high-speed internet and electrical generation to support AI advancements. Compared to counterparts in Japan, South Korea, and India, Singaporeans highlight the strongest belief in the importance of such collaborations and investments.

Globally, while some concerns persist with 29% of respondents believe that AI will change the economy in a negative way, down from 33% last year, people are beginning to experience the practical benefits of AI, from streamlining everyday tasks such as email drafting to enhanced flood forecasting systems. 

Global citizens are also generally more trusting of their governments' capabilities to oversee AI and anticipate positive economic gains from it. 

“Singapore's enthusiasm for generative AI is remarkable,” said Ben King, managing director at Google Singappore.

He added, “Our survey revealed a nation eager to embrace AI's potential, from enhancing personal productivity to transforming the workplace. It’s encouraging to see that Singaporeans also expressed strong support for government initiatives and collaborations with AI companies. At Google, we are incredibly optimistic about the possibilities AI can create, and we remain committed to working alongside Singapore to unlock AI's full potential.”

In a previous study conducted by Ipsos in November titled "Understanding Asia", it found that consumers in Asia Pacific (APAC) are excited for technological advancement with 68% believing that AI is having a having a positive impact on the world, compared to over half (57%) globally. China leads the region with ranking first out of 50 global market surveyed.

With openness to new technology, brands can introduce and expand AI-driven products and services in the region. Marketing efforts should focus on highlighting the positive impacts of AI and how it can enhance consumer experiences. Brands can leverage this receptiveness to test and refine AI innovations, ensuring they meet local preferences before a broader international rollout.

Visuals courtesy of Ben King, LinkedIn. 

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