The role of artificial intelligence in smart city systems usage: drivers, barriers, and behavioural outcomes

Smart city and smart home systems are among the most impactful technological advancements of recent years, offering innovative solutions while also presenting new challenges for businesses and society. This study aims to investigate the antecedents (both drivers and barriers) of smart city system adoption, specifically those that incorporate artificial intelligence, and to analyse their effects on behavioral outcomes—more specifically, well-being and individual impact. The proposed model was tested using structural equation modelling with data from a survey of 211 individuals in Portugal. The main findings indicate that ubiquity and gamification were the most influential drivers of smart city system adoption. Conversely, perceived risks associated with these systems hindered their adoption. Additionally, our study demonstrated that trust significantly interacts with empowerment, perceived risk, and usage intention. Finally, usage intention was found to have a positive impact on well-being and individual outcomes in daily life. • AI in smart cities offers solutions but introduces adoption challenges. • Ubiquity and gamification are the main drivers of the adoption of smart city systems. • Perceived risks hinder the adoption of AI-driven smart city systems. • Trust moderates the relationship between adoption drivers and outcomes. • Smart city systems enhance perceived well-being and personal impact.