A new survey backs up what parents and teachers have been noticing: artificial intelligence has become part of daily life for many American teenagers. Pew Research Center data shows that about 30% of U.S. teens use AI chatbots every day, which shows just how fast the tech has caught on.
Survey responses from 1,458 teens aged 13 to 17 show how comfortably this generation is weaving AI into daily life. In total, 64% have used an AI chatbot. Among those who use them every day, 12% do so multiple times, and 4% say their usage is almost constant.
These tools aren’t fringe experiments anymore. For many teens, they’re now study aids, creative outlets, and everyday companions,” said Dr. Elena Torres, a digital media researcher who was not part of the Pew project. “The daily usage numbers point to a real change in how young people look for information and connection.
ChatGPT Dominates
The survey also pointed to a dominant player in the space. OpenAI’s ChatGPT is the preferred chatbot for 59 percent of teens who use these tools, putting it well ahead of the competition. Google’s Gemini follows at 23 percent, with Meta AI close behind at 20 percent.
One of the more unexpected findings is the limited uptake of Microsoft’s Copilot, used by just 14 percent of teens. The number raises fresh questions about how effective Microsoft’s push to weave AI “agents” throughout its software ecosystem has been in attracting younger users.
Although AI adoption is increasing, it’s only one part of teens’ broader online activity. YouTube remains the most widely used platform at 92%. TikTok is used by 68%, Instagram by 63%, and Snapchat by 55%.
The data shows a continued decline for older platforms among teens. Facebook is used by 31 percent of respondents, and WhatsApp by 24 percent. Reddit and the platform formerly known as Twitter are used by only 17 percent and 16 percent.
Pew’s numbers show exactly why teens like these tools; they feel flexible and willing to tackle just about any question. But that ease of access is also why OpenAI and other AI companies are getting so much attention from watchdogs.
Right now, the industry is dealing with a lawsuit saying these companies knowingly made tools that might push harmful behavior in kids. And as chatbots get used more and more, experts think regulators, schools, and parents will only keep a closer eye on issues like privacy, bad information, and mental health.
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