Shifting Roles, Evolving Relations: How Users Perceive GenAI

Abstract

Generative AI (GenAI) becomes increasingly embedded in our daily routines. While prior work has focused on improving GenAI adoption, little is known about users perceive their relationship with GenAI. We analyze user-reported experiences and identify two distinct user perspectives on GenAI: as a tool and as a partner. Both are shaped by task context, interaction style, and evolving trust. We identify role perception, co-adaptation, and interaction depth as key factors for human-AI collaboration. We outline variables that more adaptive frameworks should include and offer implications for models that flexibly support different roles, foster trust, and align with user expectations across contexts.