Exploring Young Adults' Attitudes Toward AI-Driven mHealth Apps: Qualitative Study

Background: Artificial intelligence (AI)-driven mobile health (mHealth) apps are emerging as a promising tool for health management, yet little is known about users' psychological perceptions and attitudes toward these technologies. Understanding these aspects is crucial for both the appropriate design and the effective use of these technologies, ensuring the psychological and physical well-being of potential end users. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the attitudes and perceptions of young adults toward a possible use of AI-driven mHealth apps, focusing on the perceived benefits and potential concerns related to their future adoption. Methods: A qualitative focus group methodology was used. Fifteen participants (12 men, 3 women; mean age 27 years, range: 25-34 years) were recruited. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify key themes influencing engagement with these technologies. Results: Four main themes emerged: "Usability," which emphasized the importance of user-friendly, personalized experiences; "Innovation and Reliability," where participants expressed both enthusiasm and skepticism towards AI's potential; "Affectivity and Interaction with AI," highlighting mixed opinions on the emotional impact of AI interactions; and "Perceived Risks," which focused on concerns regarding data privacy and the need for human supervision. These factors contributed to ambivalent attitudes toward AI-driven mHealth apps, with some participants being open to adoption, while others remained cautious. Conclusions: To foster greater engagement with AI-driven mHealth apps, developers should prioritize usability, trust, emotional support, and privacy issues, considering users' psychological needs and expectations. The findings offer valuable insights for designing more user-oriented mHealth solutions. Further research should explore how perceptions evolve with direct experience and long-term use.