Survey claims brands which sound more "human" will get ahead in the AI age (www.techradar.com)

A recent survey by WordPress VIP highlights a growing "bot fatigue" among consumers, revealing that 74% feel online interactions lack the human touch compared to a decade ago, largely due to the increasing presence of AI. Many customers, with an average of 40 minutes before feeling overwhelmed, express dissatisfaction with AI's role in marketing or customer experience, as 61% cannot identify brands effectively utilizing AI. This discontent indicates that consumers do not view AI as a valuable marketing asset; instead, they prefer enhanced experiences that do not overtly emphasize artificial intelligence. The findings suggest a shift in how AI is perceived: rather than replacing the human element, it should enhance digital experiences like search engine discovery. Consumers favor brands that prioritize human-centered interactions, with a majority indicating that AI references can deter engagement. This underlines the importance for businesses to re-evaluate their AI strategies, focusing on building trust and authenticity while integrating AI seamlessly into the consumer journey, rather than using it as a stand-alone selling point.