Americans are sick of fake AI content and desperate for something real

BrianFagioli writes: A new iHeartMedia study called âoeThe Human Consumerâ reveals that Americans are growing weary of AI and craving authenticity. The report, released at AudioCon 2025 in New York, found that 82 percent of respondents worry about AIâ(TM)s impact on society and 9 in 10 say itâ(TM)s important to know their media was created by a real person. While nearly everyone uses social media, most say it leaves them feeling worse. Many even admit theyâ(TM)d rather ditch their smartphones entirely as trust in algorithms and online information continues to collapse.

The study highlights a growing disconnect between technology and human emotion. Parents report their kids are glued to screens yet struggle to form real-world connections, while adults are losing faith in the very media they consume. iHeartMedia CEO Bob Pittman says the findings show that people are seeking meaning over convenience, turning to radio, live events, and human storytelling for something AI cannot offer⦠genuine connection.