May 17 (News On Japan) - In a series of street interviews across Japan, people of all ages were asked about their everyday use of AI and how emerging technologies like ChatGPT, humanoid robots, and cashless payments are shaping their lives.
When asked whether they use AI, many quickly responded that they use ChatGPT. Students frequently said they rely on it to help them understand difficult subjects like math or to generate ideas for book reports. One said, "When I don’t know how to start writing something, I ask ChatGPT for help." Another added, "I use it to summarize really long texts, so I can grasp the main point quickly."
Among younger generations, there was also a sense of AI becoming indispensable. One person said, "It’s become a part of my life. I’d feel a bit lost without it." However, several students admitted that while schools have rules against using AI tools for assignments, many still secretly do so. "They say not to use it, but I’ve never been caught," one said. Another revealed their strategy: "I just change the tone from polite language to my own words, so it doesn’t sound like AI wrote it."
ChatGPT wasn’t the only AI mentioned. Some said they rely on AI navigation tools like Google Maps or voice assistants such as Alexa. In terms of practical applications, one office worker noted using AI to draft contracts, while another said they use it to translate or check the accuracy of foreign language texts.
Asked what tasks they'd assign to a humanoid robot, many gave practical answers—help with housework, cooking, or reminders about daily schedules. Some wanted a companion to talk to or even give massages. "I want a robot friend. I'd name him Taro," one said with a laugh.
Opinions on AI’s role in society were mixed. Some believed overreliance on AI could diminish human thinking abilities. "I want to think things through on my own," said one woman. "Otherwise, we may forget how to think for ourselves." Still, others viewed AI positively as a helpful assistant as long as it wasn’t misused.
When asked about digital payments, many said they rarely carry cash. Popular apps like PayPay were mentioned, and respondents said they prefer cards or smartphones for convenience and point rewards. Some still carry cash for places that don’t accept electronic payment, such as local markets or budget supermarkets. Most estimated that cash-only establishments now make up only 20–30% of shops, and expect this number to continue declining.
The interviews also touched on older technologies still in use in Japan. For example, fax machines. Several people admitted their workplaces still used fax for sending estimates or invoices. "My house still has a fax machine," one said, "but we only use it for business." Another noted, "Fax has become something like a museum piece at this point."
Security and convenience were also hot topics. While some prioritized convenience when using services like ChatGPT, others emphasized the importance of protecting personal data, especially for banking or sensitive tasks. "When it comes to money or private information, I care more about security," one said. Others struck a balance, saying they trusted AI tools but avoided entering private details.
The interviews closed on a playful note, asking who people would want to be kidnapped by—aliens, ghosts, or pirates. Many picked aliens, imagining the excitement of space travel or inspiration for fashion design. Others said they’d bring sushi into space to share with extraterrestrials. When asked if they’d want an AI boyfriend, most laughed it off, saying they preferred human connection or joked that a humanoid robot couldn’t give a proper hug.
Across the board, the responses painted a picture of a society quietly and rapidly integrating AI into daily life—often with humor, caution, and curiosity.
Source: Interviewing Japan
