How are people using AI in 2026?
In the third edition of the Harvard study, the authors found that people are adopting generative AI for an ever-widening range of uses, including what the authors are describing as ‘thinkslop’.
The Top 10 Gen AI Use Cases in 2026
According to the Harvard study, the most common uses of generative AI are:
- Therapy and Companionship
- Learning and Education
- Writing Assistance
- Coding
- Research
- Autonomous Agentic Operations
- Relationship Advice
- Work Buddy
- Creative Projects
- Health Information
What the Findings Tell Us
The research points to a significant shift in how people interact with AI.
AI Is Becoming Personal
For the first time, personal well-being and self-improvement are dominating the rankings. People are using AI not just to complete tasks, but to navigate emotions, learn new skills, and seek guidance.
The Rise of “Thinkslop”
One of the study’s most talked-about findings is what researchers call “thinkslop.”
In at least 25% of the top use cases, people are outsourcing parts of their thinking to AI. This includes asking AI to help make difficult decisions, provide personal direction, or solve complex problems on their behalf.
The question is: where is the line between helpful assistance and over-reliance?
Therapy and Companionship Take the Top Spot
For the second year running, therapy and companionship remain the number one use case.
Many users see AI as an accessible, non-judgmental space to talk through stress, loneliness, or everyday challenges. While AI is not a replacement for professional support, it is increasingly being used as a sounding board for emotional well-being.
Autonomous Agents Arrive
A major new entrant this year is Autonomous Agentic Operations, ranking at number six.
Rather than simply generating text, AI systems are now carrying out multi-step tasks. For example, they can transcribe voice notes, organise information, schedule meetings, and complete workflows with minimal human input.
Bottom-Up Adoption
Perhaps most interestingly, these use cases are emerging organically.
The study found that many of the most popular applications are driven by individuals experimenting with AI in their daily lives, rather than by corporate AI programmes or top-down initiatives.
The Emotional and Cognitive Edge of AI
The Harvard research, alongside other recent surveys, suggests that AI in 2026 is as much about feelings, identity, and decision-making as it is about productivity.
AI is no longer just a workplace tool. For many people, it has become a learning partner, a coach, a creative collaborator, and even a companion.
What Are Your Top AI Use Cases?
What role does AI play in your daily life?
I’ve created a Thinkslop Audit Tool to help you assess where AI is helping your thinking and where it might be replacing it.
I’ll be sharing it in the next edition of Human in the Loop.
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About the Podcast Host
AI and Communications Specialist | Author | Podcaster | International Speaker
Joanne Sweeney is a recognised leader in digital marketing and digital transformation, specialising in the practical application of AI to enhance communication strategies. The founder of Digital Training Institute, Joanne, empowers leaders and communications professionals to leverage AI responsibly and effectively, ensuring transparency, trust, and tangible results.
She completed the Harvard Kennedy School Executive Programme in AI and Public Policy this summer before launching her fourth book AI Playbook, in September. Joanne has also published two editions of Public Sector Marketing Pro, which were preceded by her first title, Social Media Under Investigation Law Enforcement and the Social Web.
Her books have become go-to resources for governments, public sector and policing agencies, as well as marketing and communications professionals, all navigating the challenges of the changing Internet.
Joanne is the host of the AI SIX Podcast, a daily six-minute podcast that provides actionable insights, expert interviews, and practical advice to help professionals navigate the new world of work.
