Meltwater and YouGov Report Reveals Consumer Trust Challenges in Generative AI Era

Event summary

  • Meltwater and YouGov released a global report on consumer perception of generative AI on April 21, 2026.
  • The study surveyed nearly 10,000 consumers across seven global markets.
  • 86% of consumers believe AI-generated content should be disclosed.
  • 51% of consumers are skeptical about AI, while 39% are excited.
  • AI video content saw a 557% engagement surge from March 2025 to February 2026.

The big picture

The report highlights a critical juncture for brands as generative AI reshapes consumer trust. With 86% of consumers demanding transparency, companies must navigate the fine line between leveraging AI for engagement and maintaining authenticity. The rapid rise of AI-generated content, particularly in video, underscores the need for strategic communication to mitigate skepticism and build long-term trust.

What we're watching

Trust Dynamics
How brands will balance AI adoption with transparency to maintain consumer trust.
Content Strategy
Whether brands can leverage AI-generated content effectively in high-trust sectors like news and influencer marketing.
Regulatory Impact
The pace at which regulations will emerge to address AI-generated misinformation and consumer protection.

Related topics

Technology