ChatGPT has turned out to be more than just a novelty, as this daily-use tool is now shaping how millions of people think, work, and live. A new study has concluded after analysing 1.5 million conversations to track its usage across the globe. This was done by OpenAI in collaboration with Harvard economist David Deming.
The research highlights three major findings: adoption is broadening worldwide, gender gaps in usage are closing, and everyday tasks, rather than niche technical work, contribute to most of the interactions.
The study shows that gender representation has shifted dramatically. In January 2024, just 37% of ChatGPT users had typically feminine names. By July 2025, that figure had risen to 52%, closely reflecting the broader adult population.
Meanwhile, usage in low-income countries grew four times faster than in high-income countries, signalling that access is widening across economic divides.
Ever wonder what people ask ChatGPT most?
Three out of four chats revolve around practical, everyday tasks like writing, information-seeking, and guidance. The study categorised interactions into three patterns of use: Asking (49%): Advice, explanations, fact-checking. Doing (40%): Drafting documents, planning projects, and programming assistance. Expressing (11%): Reflection, play, or creative exploration.
Only 30% of consumer usage was directly work-related, while 70% was non-work. This shows how ChatGPT can be a versatile tool for both personal and professional spheres. Writing emerged as the top professional use, while coding and self-expression remained more niche.
Decision support, which helps users weigh options, streamline tasks, or make choices was also identified as one of the key ways people integrate ChatGPT into their routines.
When chat replaces search
For many, ChatGPT is becoming an important tool that is to be used regularly. This shadows how Google was used in the mid-2000s. The study suggests that the technology is leading up to being a core tool that is reshaping behaviour across demographics, geographies, and income levels. “ChatGPT is increasingly part of everyday life, not just a productivity hack,” Deming said. “Its growth tells us something fundamental about how people are adapting to AI.” This might be a turning point for the worl,d as this might alter how individuals worldwide approach learning, work, and decision-making in the years ahead.
