TOMORROW REPORT 2025: SWEDES’ TRUST IN NEW TECHNOLOGY IS DECLINING

Tomorrow Report 2025 reveals a sharp decline in Swedish trust in new technology, alongside growing support for digital independence and investments in digital defence. Discover the key trends shaping Sweden’s future views on AI, security, and digitalisation.

Key insights from this year’s report:

• The share of Swedes who believe new technology contributes to a better future has fallen from 76% to 56% since 2020.
• 9 out of 10 Swedes want Europe to develop its own digital platforms to reduce reliance on the US and China.
• 58% believe Sweden should prioritise digital defence over climate technology.
• 41% want AI integrated into schools, while 36% are opposed.
• 66% are worried that AI will reduce people’s sense of purpose and meaning in society.

A turning point in Swedish tech optimism
Sweden has long been seen as a technology-optimistic nation, but this year’s edition of the Tomorrow Report reveals a clear shift. Optimism has been replaced by caution — only 56 percent view new technology as a positive force in society, compared with 76 percent five years ago. The decline is noticeable across all age groups, particularly among women, likely influenced by recent major societal changes.

“Declining optimism doesn’t mean people have lost faith in technology, rather, they are becoming more aware and setting higher expectations. Swedes want innovation grounded in responsibility and real value. This is a healthy development and a sign of maturity in how we view the role of digitalisation in society,” says Martin am Zoll, CEO of Nexer Group.

Europe steps forward — strong demand for digital independence
Even as trust in technology’s ability to drive positive societal development decreases, the desire for digital independence is strengthening. A full 89 percent of Swedes believe Europe should develop its own digital platforms to reduce dependence on the US and China. The sentiment is strongest among older respondents, where 95 percent of those aged 65–79 see a need for European alternatives, while support is slightly lower, but still high, among 18–29-year-olds (80%).

Digital defence prioritised over climate efforts
When asked to choose between investments in digital defence and green technology, 58 percent prioritise digital defence. This marks a significant shift since 2019, when climate issues dominated public debate, reflecting how Europe’s security situation has reshaped perceptions of technology’s role in society.

Swedes want to contribute technologically to national defence
The report also shows a strong willingness to support Sweden’s digital preparedness. 81 percent of Swedes are positive toward allowing their private digital devices, such as mobile phones, computers, and routers, to be used in the event of war under democratically regulated conditions. Support is somewhat lower among younger adults (66 percent for ages 18–29) and highest among those over 50 (87 percent).

AI in schools — divided opinions but a clear need for direction
As technology takes on a larger role in society, the question of how we prepare the next generation becomes increasingly important. Artificial intelligence is already becoming a natural part of education in many parts of the world. At the same time, the report shows that public opinion in Sweden is divided: 41 percent want AI integrated into education, 36 percent are opposed, and a quarter are unsure — a result that signals a need for more knowledge, clearer guidance, and ethical frameworks.

“That Swedes are losing trust in technology at the same time as we’re seeing international attention on the Swedish AI miracle, with billion-dollar valuations for companies like Lovable and Sana Labs, is fascinating. We need to bring the Swedish public on board with this positive wave quickly so we don’t risk a decline in interest that could spill over into investments and ultimately burst the bubble,” says Jennie Sinclair, founder of Techposition.

About Tomorrow Report:
Tomorrow Report 2025 is based on a recurring survey conducted by Kantar Sifo AB, developed by Techposition and Nexer. This year's survey includes responses from 2,000 Swedes aged 18-79. The data is weighted by gender, age and region to provide nationally representative results. The purpose of Tomorrow Report is to contribute to knowledge sharing and promote open dialogue about the role of technology in social development.

About Nexer:
Nexer Group is an international tech company with roots in Swedish entrepreneurial spirit and innovation. Nexer has 2,500 experts in 16 countries and is part of the Danir Group, a Swedish privately owned company with 11,200 employees in 26 countries. Nexer works with some of the world’s largest and most demanding companies, providing expertise in digital transformation, IT, tech, and R&D.

Download Tomorrow Report 2025:
Tomorrow Report 2025 | Nexer

For further information, please contact:
Lina Hellström, Public Relations Manager Nexer Group
Lina.hellstrom@nexergroup.com
+46 70 530 86 90