Robotics and artificial intelligence in the home to out Brits in control
Britons are looking forward to a world of robots, chatbots and virtual reality. New research shows that as a nation Britons are increasingly comfortable with the idea of having a domestic droid or cyber assistant to help around the home, despite negative publicity.
The findings by advertising agency J. Walter Thompson showed that Britons are optimistic about the robot revolution, with three quarters (74%) agreeing technology puts them in control.
The study by found that half (54%) of the 4,500 people surveyed are open to delegating some of their decision making such as making appointments.
When asked about their attitudes towards technology, a fifth (22%) were already happy to hand over personal admin such as booking flights to an automated machine or virtual assistant.
The report noted that people report they are happy to handover tasks in this way as it not only makes life easier, but also frees them to address more important issues and spend more quality time with family and friends.
Also, 74% said they are more likely to buy a product that has been customised to their specifications and two thirds (64%) like the idea of using technology to get a better understanding of who they are as a person.
Marie Stafford, European director, the innovation group at J. Walter Thompson, said: “Until recently robots and artificial intelligence were often thought of as negative, however our report shows that many people have changed their opinion. From monitoring their heart rates to knowing how much milk is left in the fridge, new technology can make all our lives easier.”
