The gender gap in AI

2026-06-11 · Source: Pew Research Center · Field: Science & Research — Social Sciences & Behavioral Studies, Research Methodology & Innovation · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, long

Summary

The Pew Research Center's February 2026 study, based on a survey of 5,119 U.S. adults, reveals evolving gender dynamics in AI engagement. While overall chatbot use parity has been achieved by 2026, with 49% of U.S. adults (50% men, 47% women) reporting usage, men still use these tools more regularly and for specific purposes like work (40% vs. 35% women) and information search (45% vs. 39% women). Men are also more likely to use specific chatbots like Gemini (29% vs. 20% women), Copilot (22% vs. 13% women), and Grok (11% vs. 4% women), though ChatGPT use is equal at 44%. Women, however, are more skeptical about AI's future impact, with 33% expecting negative personal outcomes compared to 17% positive, and 68% believing AI is advancing too quickly. Men also report higher AI literacy and confidence.

Key takeaway

For product developers and marketers targeting AI users, understanding gender-specific usage patterns and perceptions is crucial. While overall chatbot adoption is nearing parity, women's higher skepticism and lower confidence in AI, coupled with their preference for emotional support applications, suggest a need for more inclusive design and communication strategies. Focus on demonstrating tangible benefits and addressing concerns about AI's pace to broaden engagement and trust among female users.

Key insights

Despite overall chatbot usage parity, significant gender gaps persist in AI perception, specific platform adoption, and perceived utility.

Principles

• AI literacy and confidence correlate with positive perceptions of AI's impact.
• Gender influences specific chatbot brand adoption and usage motivations.
• Perceptions of AI's societal pace vary significantly by gender.

Method

A survey of 5,119 U.S. adults from the American Trends Panel was conducted from Feb. 17-23, 2026, to gather views on AI use, smart devices, and societal impact.

In practice

• Analyze user demographics for specific chatbot platforms beyond overall usage.
• Tailor AI education initiatives to address varying gender-based literacy levels.
• Consider gender-specific concerns when designing AI impact assessments.

Topics

• AI Chatbots
• Gender Gap
• AI Adoption
• Public Perception
• Digital Literacy
• Pew Research Center

Best for: Executive, AI Product Manager, Product Manager, Policy Maker, Tech Journalist, General Interest

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by Pew Research Center.