Are We Ready for AI? A Latent Profile Analysis Based on AI Readiness Among Singaporeans

The ubiquitous nature of artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming our daily lives. Beyond simply welcoming or rejecting algorithms, citizens hold complex viewpoints toward AI-powered information and communication technologies (ICTs). However, few studies have explored how ICT users can be grouped by their readiness toward AI, given that individuals have different views and reactions to these new AI technologies. Using latent profile analysis, we identified three subgroups among 512 Singaporean users, showing distinct patterns in their AI-readiness (e.g. a tech-pioneering but AI-reactant subgroup). Also, technology acceptance factors for AI-based applications (e.g. perceived utility, hedonicity, and ease of use) predicted users’ likelihood of belonging to each subgroup. We also discovered that user profiles were associated with different levels of attitudinal and behavioral intentions. Both theoretical and practical implications are discussed.