We asked our Gen Z and millennial reporters and editors about AI agents. Here's where they split.
Business Insider's Economy team weighs in on AI agents: Our Gen Zers are skeptical, while millennials see promise with caution.
Members of Business Insider's Economy team shared their perspectives on AI agents, with differing opinions between generations. Millennials expressed cautious optimism about the potential efficiency gains, while Gen Z colleagues exhibited skepticism and privacy concerns. AI agents represent a step beyond chatbots, capable of multi-step tasks such as making restaurant reservations and purchasing desired items.
The Gen Z consensus emphasized concerns about privacy, scams, and the potential for AI agents to be influenced by company incentives. Gen Z reporters like Ayelet Sheffey, Allie Kelly, and Juliana Kaplan were particularly guarded about handing over personal information to AI agents, voicing distrust and desire for control over their data.
In contrast, millennials like Bartie Scott and Andy Kiersz voiced cautious optimism, noting that AI agents could potentially reduce screen time and streamline workflows. Industry-specific fields like finance, consulting, and tech-adjacent areas seemed more open to adopting AI agents, while creative fields appeared more hesitant.
Written by urgent.news from Business Insider's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.