50% APAC Gen Z Uses AI Daily

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has seamlessly integrated into the daily routines of the younger generation, marking a major shift in modern tech adoption. Half (50%) of Gen Z respondents in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region use AI daily or almost daily, representing the highest engagement rate among all demographic groups. This tech-first trend highlights a critical evolution in how youth interact with smart systems, shaping the future of digital engagement and cybersecurity.

According to research from Kaspersky, Gen Z primarily leverages AI to search for information (57%), study (54%), and generate ideas (50%).

Beyond utility, AI is rapidly assuming a personal role. Nearly one-third (32%) of Gen Z respondents in APAC report using AI as a friend, with similar figures recorded in Indonesia (39%), Vietnam (35%), Thailand (34%), Malaysia (33%), and India (32%). Meanwhile, 34% utilize AI to discuss personal issues they prefer not to share with other people. This indicates a broader transition from task-based tool usage toward conversational engagement, emotional support, and digital companionship.

However, high utilization does not inherently guarantee safe practice. While 45% of Gen Z respondents in APAC consistently take protective measures when using AI, 51% do so only occasionally. This discrepancy underscores an urgent need for users to verify AI-generated output and refrain from sharing sensitive data, including passwords, financial details, identity documents, private correspondence, and personal health information.

As AI becomes deeply embedded in education, communication, and decision-making, understanding how platforms collect, process, and store user data is vital. Security solutions like Kaspersky Premium offer additional defenses against phishing, malware, and fraudulent websites, while Kaspersky Academy’s Cyberhygiene course and the interactive Case 404 game help users develop essential cybersecurity skills.

Highlighting the trend, Vladislav Tushkanov, Group Manager at Kaspersky AI Technology Research Centre, stated that Gen Z understands emerging AI trends better than other generations and is finding new ways to integrate the technology into studying, communication, and everyday life. He noted that the fact that some young people now use AI as a friend shows how quickly the relationship between users and technology is changing. However, he warned that an interaction that feels personal should not be mistaken for a private or fully reliable conversation, emphasizing that young users need to combine confidence and curiosity with habits such as checking information, protecting personal data, and thinking critically about the responses they receive.

Adding further insight, Adrian Hia, Managing Director for Asia Pacific at Kaspersky, stated that what stands out about the survey is how naturally AI has become part of the younger generation’s everyday lives. He noted that when one in three Gen Z users in APAC sees AI as a friend, it is clearly becoming more than just a tool. As that relationship becomes more personal, knowing what to trust, what to share, and where to draw the line will be key to using AI safely and responsibly. //DBTech/SSCP/SMP/MIST//