Consumer sentiment towards AI-generated content in marketing is a bit of a mixed bag. While people appreciate ads and content that are helpful and relevant, many are put off by marketing that feels robotic, lacks emotion, or crosses boundaries.
According to Canva’s “The state of marketing and AI 2026” report, 70% of consumers can often tell when an ad is generated by AI because it lacks a “soul.” Additionally, 69% fear that advertising will become inundated with “AI-generated slop,” and 65% find AI-generated ads to be “obviously artificial.”
It’s not just ads that are causing frustration. More than half of survey respondents express annoyance towards AI-generated social media posts, machine-personalized emails, computer-generated product images, AI voiceovers, and AI-written articles.
The report highlights that the issue lies not with AI itself but rather with how brands implement it. The report cautions against churning out content in mass quantities without a clear creative direction, as this could erode trust and drive audiences away.
This skepticism is already impacting purchasing decisions. A significant 74% of consumers are more inclined to buy from ads they believe were crafted entirely by humans, and 87% emphasize the importance of a human touch in advertising.
Despite these concerns, consumers are not outright rejecting AI technology.
Sixty-eight percent are comfortable with AI in advertising if it enhances the relevance and helpfulness of ads. The report consistently shows that consumers respond positively to personalized content that is practical and beneficial, rather than eerie or overly predictive.
Younger consumers appear more receptive to AI-generated content. Among Gen Z and Millennials, 70% prioritize an ad’s overall “vibe” over its method of creation, and 69% do not mind AI involvement as long as human input is evident.
Consumers also respond favorably to personalized content that offers clear benefits. A notable 81% appreciate ads that help them save money, 80% prefer ads in their local language, and 77% value advertising that is locally relevant.
Timing is another crucial factor. Sixty-five percent find value in ads that appear at the right moment or in the appropriate context.
However, where brands lose consumers is when personalization feels intrusive. Fifty-eight percent are against companies using AI to predict their preferences before they express them, while 52% feel ads are “too personal” when they anticipate purchases before consumers search for them.
Consumers are clear about what would increase their trust in AI-generated advertising. Fifty-three percent prioritize the protection of user data, 52% desire transparency regarding AI usage, and 37% want the option to opt out of AI-generated ads.
Access the full report here. (Registration required)
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