Global market research company Ipsos has released its 2024 AI Monitor report, revealing a significant divide in attitudes towards artificial intelligence (AI) across the Asia Pacific region.

The report, which surveyed attitudes towards AI, found that 62% of respondents in Asia expressed excitement for products and services that utilise AI. However, English-speaking countries such as Australia and New Zealand showed more caution.

In China, 80% of respondents expressed interest in AI, followed by Indonesia and Thailand, both at 76%, and South Korea at 73%. In stark contrast, only 39% of Australians and 43% of New Zealanders expressed the same level of excitement. The report also found that 66% of New Zealanders and 64% of Australians admitted that AI makes them nervous.

"People are still firmly divided over whether AI will be a friend or foe in the coming years. Across the APAC region, Asian countries are leading the charge for embracing the technology, showing both a strong understanding and excitement about the technology. English-speaking countries, including Australia and New Zealand, remain sceptical about AI, particularly its impact on their day-to-day life and employment. Greater education around the technology and practical examples may help to build confidence in the AI revolution and how it can be harnessed to improve everyday life," said Ipsos APEC CEO, Hamish Munro.

The report also found that 73% of people across the Asia Pacific region believe AI will profoundly change their life in the next three to five years. 66% of respondents across the region believe AI will change how they do their job in the next five years.

The report also highlighted a mixed understanding of AI in the region. For instance, 86% of respondents in Indonesia said they understand AI, compared to just 63% in Australia, which is lower than the global average of 67%. Knowledge about AI products and services is highest in Asia, with China (81%), Indonesia (80%) and Thailand (69%) topping the list. In contrast, only 38% of Australians know what products and services use AI, well below the global average of 52%.