AI as part of the routine
Gen Z, born between 1997 and 2012, grew up in a world where technology is everywhere. They don’t approach AI with excitement or skepticism. They simply use it when it makes things easier, faster, or more interesting. According to Gallup, 47 percent of Gen Z uses AI tools weekly. Not as an experiment, but as part of their routine.
A report from Deloitte shows they’re mostly optimistic about AI. They know there are risks, but what stands out is their interest in how AI can support learning, work, and creativity.
How they actually use it
Take text generation. Tools like ChatGPT are used to write job applications, draft essays, or organize schoolwork. Not to cheat, but to get started more quickly and focus on what matters. The goal isn’t to copy, but to work smarter. In creative work, the same mindset applies. With tools like Midjourney and Canva, Gen Z produces visual content for social media, school projects, or side hustles — without needing years of experience. AI helps sharpen their ideas, not replace them.
The numbers confirm it
Gallup says 79 percent of Gen Z has used an AI tool at least once. In 2024, 64 percent used AI for school or work. Another study from The Fratelli Group found that 61 percent use AI multiple times a week. These aren’t isolated users. This is mainstream behavior.
A generation that builds with it
Gen Z doesn’t just consume AI tools — they build with them. Many students and young professionals run freelance projects on the side. They use AI to design logos, write product descriptions, or automate tasks. Entire one-person businesses run on smart tools. What’s remarkable is how practical they are. It’s not about being ahead of the curve, it’s about getting the job done.
No patience for gimmicks
They’re also highly critical. Overly pushy AI, like irrelevant product recommendations or soulless chatbots, turns them off. They don’t want vague promises or over-automated interactions. They want to know what a tool does, why it works, and whether they can control it.
They think about ethics too
Just because Gen Z is comfortable with AI doesn’t mean they trust it blindly. They ask questions about privacy, originality, and how reliable the information is. Many are aware that AI isn’t neutral, and they don’t want to be passive users. That’s why they often use AI to kickstart a process, not to finish it. They rewrite, fact-check, and make it their own. Control matters.
Embrancing Agentic AI
Agentic AI refers to autonomous systems that understand goals, plan multi-step tasks, interact with tools and data, and act independently, far surpassing the reactive nature of traditional generative AI. According to research from Salesforce, 70% of Gen Z are interested in using AI agents as personal assistants, and 32% are already comfortable letting them shop on their behalf.
This generation is strongly motivated by convenience. Being able to interact with an agent that seamlessly pulls data from point A to point B—without extra steps—is exactly what they’re looking for. Agentic AI directly serves Gen Z’s practical mindset by simplifying tasks, reducing friction, and making digital interactions feel effortless.
What businesses can learn from this
If you want to reach Gen Z, don’t use AI as a gimmick. Use it to make things genuinely easier. Help them get answers faster, solve problems, or create something better. But the moment AI replaces a real conversation with a cold automated response, you’ll lose them. Offer real value. Be clear about what your tool does and where its limits are. Show how users stay in control. Flashy features matter less than practical outcomes.
What we do at DotControl
At DotControl, AI is deeply integrated into everything we do. We use it across as many processes as possible, from recruitment and marketing to development and beyond. AI supports our creative workflows, enhances data analysis, and helps with content creation. But we don’t use AI to replace people: we use it to empower them. It’s a tool that helps our teams work smarter, faster, and more creatively. That’s why it feels natural, not flashy or forced, but practical and effective.
We’re also actively developing our own internal AI tools, tailored to improve our operations and support our clients even better. For us, AI isn’t a trend, it’s a fundamental part of how we build the future.
Looking ahead
Gen Z is done playing with AI. They’re using it with intent. To move faster, think clearer, or create something original. No magic. Just useful tools that do what they promise and that’s enough.
FAQ
Why does Gen Z struggle with AI gimmicks?
Because they have no interest in superficial or forced technology. They’re looking for applications that solve real problems.
What do they mostly use AI for?
For school, work, side jobs, and creative projects: from text generation to image editing.
Are they critical in how they use it?
Absolutely. They check what AI produces, don’t accept it blindly, and make conscious decisions.
What is important to this group?
Gen Z wants to know what AI does, how it works, and where its limits are.
What can businesses learn from this?
That credibility matters. Using AI for self-serving purposes backfires. Offer functionality that truly adds value.
In short
Gen Z uses AI because it works. Because it saves time. Because it gives them space to think and create. But only if the tool is honest, clear, and gives them control. If you want to reach them, skip the sales talk. Just make something useful.
Want to get smarter with AI and effectively reach Gen Z?