Age of AI prompts renewed curiosity

While some people might have assumed that greater use of artificial intelligence (AI) might stymy learning and curiosity, one new survey has found the opposite.

According to new Samsung research, Irish adults are embracing AI as a tool for learning, creativity and everyday problem‑solving, and asking the right question is the new superpower.

Perhaps worryingly though, 45% of Irish people surveyed use AI to settle disputes or make important decisions.

62% of people agree that asking the right questions is more valuable than memorising facts. Nearly half (48%) say they feel more curious today than they did before AI became widely available and 45% of Irish people now use it to settle disputes or make important decisions.

Far from making people lazy or replacing critical thinking, the research shows AI is actually opening doors. More than half of respondents (58%) say AI encourages them to dive into topics they might never have explored on their own.

From cooking inspiration to understanding more about the human body, to travel planning and personal wellbeing, and with AI already on the devices people carry every day, satisfying that spark of curiosity no longer requires a trip to the library. The findings show that just 10% are less curious since AI tools became mainstream, with Irish people now spending almost 2 hours a week using AI to learn something new.

Almost a third of those surveyed now doubt long‑standing health rules like avoiding food after 8pm or hitting 10,000 steps a day.

“For too long we've measured intelligence by what you can remember. But that world is changing,” said Annika Bizon, Mobile Experience Vice President of Product and Marketing, UK&I at Samsung.

“This shift is called 'prompt culture': a world where asking the right questions has become as valuable as knowing the right answer. AI is reigniting curiosity, with our research showing that nearly half of Irish people say they feel more curious now than they did before AI.

“At Samsung, we see our role as removing the barriers between curiosity and answers,” she said. “Previously, learning something new meant committing serious time, but with AI features like those available on our Galaxy S25 Series, we're making it possible to satisfy your curiosity the moment it strikes. While technology removes the friction, it's people who decide what questions are worth asking.”

Tips for mastering prompt culture:

Be specific: Detailed questions like asking for quick high‑protein dinners under 500 calories, lead to far better results.

Ask AI to play a role: Frame your question as if speaking to an expert, such as a sports physiotherapist or chef.

Challenge the norms: Use AI to question assumptions, like whether the 10,000 steps rule is scientifically sound.

Fact‑check your curiosity: Ask for sources, compare answers, and keep thinking critically.

Use answers as a launchpad: Ask follow‑ups like ‘What should I read next?’ or ‘Who is leading the research on this?’