Quarter of local residents use AI: Study

About 25% of Macau residents use generative artificial intelligence (AI) platforms like ChatGPT, according to the 2024 “Internet Usage Trends in Macao” report recently published by the Macao Internet Project (MIP).

Among these users, about 23% use the technology at least once a week.

“Since 2001, the MIP has been researching the use and impact of the internet and other ICT among Macau residents,” the report noted.

“For the past 24 years, large-scale random telephone surveys and special studies have been conducted, with data collected from a representative sample of the Macau population,” it said.

“The annual survey results show the statistical data and development trends of internet usage.”

“Nearly half of netizens are willing to use generative AI in the future, with the rate of willing to use higher than in 2023. Netizens most expect generative AI to enhance learning and working efficiency,” MIP said.

Generative AI can produce new text, images, code and other data in response to simple prompts.

While it offers various practical applications and potential technological opportunities for Macau, the report cautions it should be approached with care.

Fact distortion is not uncommon, and people should learn to evaluate the accuracy of the generated content.

The report further highlights Macau internet access is now equally available to residents across the board, with the majority accessing the internet via smartphones.

The internet adoption rate in 2023 was 93%, which has remained consistent over the past five years.

Lack of knowledge and skills is cited as the primary barrier preventing non-users from going online.

In terms of internet activities, 91% of the population uses social media, with WeChat being the most popular platform, followed by YouTube, Facebook and WhatsApp.

Additionally, 84% of people use the internet to watch videos, 76% to listen to music, 54% to play online games and 36% to listen to podcasts.

The report said 46% of Macau residents have experienced internet privacy and security issues, with internet fraud being the most common concern.

Moreover, 67% of residents shop online, with the average monthly expenditure decreasing from 1,438 patacas in 2023 to 1,383 patacas in 2024.

MIP’s report is based on a survey conducted in January, involving over 1,500 residents. Staff Reporter