Phone makers like Apple, Google and others are racing to add AI technology to their devices, despite consumer concerns about the technology being embedded in their handsets, according to a new study from Stagwell’s National Research Group.  

Per the study, consumers’ top concerns about AI in mobile apps are: too much AI-generated content on social media (31%); that AI might make decisions without consent (30%); it would be harder to protect personal data and privacy (30%); it will be easier for people to spread misinformation online (28%); and apps will be misused by scammers and cybercriminals (27%). 

Despite the concerns, 69% anticipate nearly all smartphones will have integrated AI features within five years, while 75% of users believe apps should disclose when they use AI.  

Employees’ top desires for AI are learning new skills, enhancing productivity and searching for information. 

When it comes to marketing AI-powered smartphones, 51% of men would be more likely to purchase a smartphone described as “built for AI.” 

Only 28% of women, however, would be more interested in buying a phone that was “built for AI,” however -- the same number that would be turned off by such marketing. 

See more from the study here.