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Generative AI: Growth Surge Meets Trust Issues

February 18, 2026

home automation

artificial intelligence

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Generative AI's infiltrated 58% of US internet households as of February 2026, according to Parks Associates.

Parks' survey revealed only 16% of these households forked out cash for a paid AI application—around 20 million homes gambling on something beyond free trials. This should send alarms blaring through trading desks because consumer hesitation has implications that ripple through the entire tech ecosystem. What gives? Well, roughly 30% of consumers say they’re less likely to buy anything marketed as 'AI-powered.' That’s nearly double the number who’d consider it a selling point.

Parks’ analysis points out that “AI-forward branding alone does not drive purchase intent.”

From the article, "Generative AI: Growth Surge Meets Trust Issues" by Dylan Bailey

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