Tech
The State of Technology Report: H2 2023
Report summary
From layoffs, inflation and calls for regulation to breaking up big tech, 2023 has been tough for the industry’s reputation. Despite these challenges, people remain optimistic about its future. The economy is coming back, inflation is largely under control and generative artificial intelligence tools are spurring a new wave of innovation.
Even in this moment of respite, however, the road ahead for tech will only become more complicated, not less. Generative AI emerged as a new industry and could bring new opportunities but is also fueling concerns among consumers. Politically, a rising share of U.S. Republicans are finding that tech has a positive impact on discourse as X, formerly known as Twitter, cozies up to conservatives. Tech, AI and online discourse are sure to become key areas of focus of the 2024 elections.
Based on survey interviews conducted monthly since September 2022, this report provides insight into how consumers view the tech industry and the future of technology.
Key Takeaways
- Tech’s reputation is inching back: After months of declines in favorability toward the tech industry, positive perceptions are trending upward.
- Outlook for tech is positive: Despite a year of many challenges — from layoffs to regulation — most still say that tech’s best days are ahead.
- The political landscape of platforms is changing: Twitter/X gives conservative voices a popular platform, impacting how Republicans view tech.
- AI takes center stage: New generative AI tools are igniting consumers’ imaginations — as well as fears about the technology.
- Further regulatory challenges ahead: The industry faces more antitrust action and legal challenges, as well as a new AI regulatory battleground.
Methodology
Morning Consult Research Intelligence data featured in this report draws from monthly surveys conducted from September 2022 to June 2023 among roughly 2,200 or 4,400 U.S. adults per month. It also includes data from various surveys fielded throughout 2022 and 2023 among representative samples of around 2,200 U.S. adults each.
All survey interviews were conducted online, and the data was weighted to approximate populations of adults based on age, gender, race, educational attainment, region, gender by age and race by educational attainment. Top-line results from the surveys have a margin of error of +/-2 percentage points.
Morning Consult brand and audience data comes from Morning Consult Intelligence. The platform helps you understand your audience, brand, competitors and market in a way traditional research companies can’t. Learn more here.
About the author
Jordan Marlatt is a lead tech analyst on the Industry Intelligence team, where he conducts research, authors analyst notes and advises clients on emerging technologies and trends. Jordan previously served as chief of staff to Morning Consult’s president and co-founder, and opened and oversaw Morning Consult’s San Francisco offices, onboarding and consulting for the company’s largest technology clients. He graduated from The George Washington University with a bachelor’s degree in international affairs and political science. For speaking opportunities and booking requests, please email [email protected].
