Sam Altman Says Younger Generation Should Use ChatGPT as a Life Advisor, Expert Warns Risk

Liputan6.com, Jakarta - OpenAI CEO Sam Altman recently highlighted an interesting phenomenon related to the use of ChatGPT by the younger generation.

According to Altman, this artificial intelligence application is no longer just a tool, but has transformed into a "life advisor" and even an "operating system" integrated into their daily lives.

Altman's statement, made at Sequoia Capital's AI Ascent event in May 2026.

This observation demonstrates how Gen Z and Millennials are increasingly relying on AI for various aspects of their lives, from personal decisions to daily routines.

This deepening dependence raises questions about the long-term implications for decision-making, social development, and even individual autonomy.

🚨 SAM ALTMAN: Older people use ChatGPT like Google.People in their 20s and 30s use it as a “life advisor.”College students use it like an “operating system” connected to their files, prompts, and daily decisions. pic.twitter.com/8nRrbItfmD

— Cointelegraph (@Cointelegraph) May 10, 2026

Altman stated differences in how different age groups utilize ChatGPT.

Older users tend to view it as an alternative to traditional search engines, similar to Google, for quickly finding specific information.

"Gross oversimplification, but like older people use ChatGPT as a Google replacement. Maybe people in their 20s and 30s use it as like a life advisor, and then, like people in college use it as an operating system," Altman said at Sequoia Capital's AI Ascent event last May.

However, for individuals in their 20s and 30s, including Millennials and older Gen Zers, ChatGPT has evolved into a 'life advisor.'

They use it for broader personal guidance, encompassing relationship advice, business consultations, medical questions, and even emotional support similar to therapy sessions.

The AI's ability to remember previous conversations allows for richer context and personalized advice.

Furthermore, college students, who are part of the younger Gen Z, treat ChatGPT as an 'operating system' deeply integrated into their daily routines.

They connect it to various files, save detailed prompts, and use it to assist with various personal decisions.

Altman even stated that many of them "don't really make a life decision without asking ChatGPT what they should do."

Data from OpenAI corroborates Altman's observations regarding ChatGPT adoption by the younger generation.

More than a third of Americans aged 18 to 24 reportedly use the platform, making the college-age group one of the fastest-growing user segments on the platform.

Altman compares this generational shift in ChatGPT usage to the early adoption patterns of smartphones.

Back then, younger generations quickly mastered new technology, while older generations took years to grasp basic functions.

This comparison highlights the natural adaptability of the younger generation to technological innovation.

This deep integration reflects how AI technology is increasingly shaping the way they learn, work, and interact with the world.

Despite its benefits, the growing reliance on artificial intelligence for important decisions has sparked serious debate among experts.

Several studies have warned of the risks of relying too heavily on AI-generated advice, especially in sensitive areas like personal relationships or health.

Altman himself expressed concern about the younger generation becoming completely reliant on ChatGPT, citing the confession of one young user who said, "ChatGPT knows me, knows my friends. I'll do whatever it says."

This statement highlights the potential loss of autonomy and critical thinking.

These concerns arise because AI algorithms lack the wisdom, intuition, or complex life experiences of humans.

Furthermore, AI can absorb biases from the training data it uses, potentially producing inaccurate or even harmful advice.