Every year, the Digimeter looks at how people in Flanders use media, technology, and digital devices. The research not only checks what people own and use, but also how they feel about it. For this, imec surveys at least 1,500 Flemish residents aged 18 and older.
In the most recent edition, one thing clearly stands out: the rapid rise of artificial intelligence (AI). Never before has a technology spread so quickly among the population.
AI is no longer a stranger
In 2024, 93% of Flemish people say they know about AI, and 71% believe they can explain what it is. More and more people are actually using it. About 28% use AI at least once a month. Among young adults (18–24 years old), this number is even higher: 68% actively use it.
Mainly for personal purposes
Most Flemish people use AI out of curiosity, to experiment and try it out. 29% say this is their main reason. Yet experimenting is slowly giving way to more frequent and purposeful use. For instance, 27% use AI for personal purposes, such as help with tasks or creative ideas, while 21% already use it for work or study.
Still, it is clear that not everyone uses AI critically. Just over half (57%) try out multiple prompts or questions, or double-check answers with other sources (53%).
Divided opinions
With the rapid rise of generative AI, such as ChatGPT, nearly everyone now has an opinion about it. Until the end of 2022, AI was still unfamiliar to many: back then, 54% had no clear opinion, 10% were negative, and 36% were positive about the technology.
But the launch of ChatGPT made AI suddenly very tangible. By the end of 2024, the share of undecided people had dropped to 45%. Two distinct camps have emerged: 32% are positive and mainly see opportunities, while 23% are negative and focus on the risks.
Between curiosity and concern
In short, most Flemish people are still on the fence. They see the benefits and potential of AI but at the same time worry about its downsides. 73% say they are concerned about the possible impact AI might have on society.
AI is no longer a distant concept. It is now part of daily life in Flanders – sparking both enthusiasm and unease.
Interested in learning more? The complete research report can be found here.
Reference
De Marez, L., Georges, A., Sevenhant, R. & Devos, E. (2025). Imec.digimeter.2024. Digital trends in Flanders. Imec.