Essays - Benedict Evans · Benedict Evans
articleinsightGenAI’s adoption puzzle
25 May 2025Strategy
Source excerpt
About Essays - Benedict EvansGenerative AI chatbots might be a life-changing transformation in the nature of computing, that can replace all software, but so far, most of its users only pick it up every week or two, and far fewer have made it part of their lives. Is that a time problem or a product problem?
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Apollo layer
What a founder can learn
Founder takeaway
Separate enthusiasm for GenAI’s potential from evidence of habitual use. If users return only occasionally, investigate whether adoption is simply early or whether the product lacks a frequent, compelling job to do.
Why it matters
Founders can mistake broad trial and excitement for durable product demand. Knowing whether low frequency reflects a still-maturing market or a weak use case determines whether to wait, improve onboarding, or redesign the product around a stronger recurring need.
Relevant guides
Put it to work
Review your GenAI product’s usage by cohort and ask: what specific recurring job should bring the target customer back each week, and what evidence shows that job is valuable enough to become a habit?