Sam Altman, the founder of OpenAI, has observed that Generation Z (Gen Z) is increasingly relying on artificial intelligence (AI) tools for making important life decisions. From career planning and relationship advice to everyday choices, young people are turning to AI for guidance, signaling a significant shift in how the digital-first generation navigates life.

 

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Speaking at the ‘AI Ascent’ event organized by Sequoia Capital in early May 2025, Altman highlighted generational differences in the way ChatGPT is used. According to him, older generations tend to use ChatGPT primarily as a search engine alternative to Google, while users in their 20s and 30s are increasingly using it as a “personal life advisor.”

 

Altman noted that college students and younger Gen Z users are adopting AI more deeply, using it to manage complex workflows, integrate files, and utilize frequently used prompts. He also mentioned that some young people reportedly do not make major life decisions without consulting ChatGPT, although he cautioned against generalizing this trend.

 

International media reports suggest that Gen Z is using ChatGPT for self-reflection, problem-solving, and evaluating different options, demonstrating a creative and innovative use of digital tools among the younger generation.

 

OpenAI’s published data also indicates that college students aged 18–24 in the United States are the most active ChatGPT users. Altman viewed this trend positively, calling it a reflection of the creativity and innovative adoption of technology by the digitally native generation.

 

However, some analysts have warned that overreliance on AI for major life decisions could be risky. While AI guidance is useful, they caution that it may weaken independent decision-making abilitiesif relied upon excessively.