Related Articles
Artificial Intelligence is muscling in on one of Britain’s most cherished festive traditions.
Nearly eight million Christmas cards are expected to be penned by AI this year.
Royal Mail research shows one in ten Brits plan to use AI to help write their cards. More than half say they would consider it.
And with 90% of over‑55s admitting they wouldn’t be confident spotting an AI‑written message, many grandparents may never realise their festive greetings were crafted by a computer.
AI becomes Santa’s little helper
Almost half of Brits (42%) say they will use AI for festive preparations.
That figure rises to 70% among 18–34‑year‑olds.
The technology is most likely to be used for researching gifts, party ideas, decoration inspiration — and even for the timeless tradition of sending cards.
Eleven per cent of respondents said they plan to let AI do the wording for their Christmas messages.
Younger generations drive the trend
Royal Mail found that 57% of under‑55s plan to lean on AI for guidance.
Only 14% of over‑55s said the same.
Men are also more likely to embrace the technology. The survey shows they are 67% more likely than women to use AI for their festive well wishes.
Younger adults back themselves to spot the difference. Sixty per cent of 18–24s say they could tell if a card was AI‑written.
But nearly one in five Brits admitted they don’t know what to write in cards at all. Among 18–24‑year‑olds, that figure rises to 31%.
Tradition still matters
Despite the rise of AI, three quarters of Brits believe it is important to keep handwritten cards alive.
Seventy‑eight per cent say they are more meaningful than digital greetings.
Technology journalist and broadcaster Georgie Barrat said it is no surprise people are turning to AI for inspiration.
“AI is becoming part of everyday life for many people, so it’s natural we’ll see it used during the festive season,” she explained.
“When it comes to writing cards, it can help you go beyond a simple ‘Merry Christmas’ and choose words that feel more unique. Often, people know what they want to say – they just need a little help expressing it.”
Funny vs heartfelt
More than half of card senders include more than just “Merry Christmas.”
Eighteen per cent add a heartfelt note. Ten per cent share a family update. Another ten per cent slip in a joke.
Regional differences are striking. The East of England takes the crown for humour, with 14% including a gag or inside joke.
Northern Ireland leads on sincerity, with 30% opting for heartfelt messages.
Royal Mail reminder
Richard Travers, Managing Director of Letters at Royal Mail, said cards remain a cherished tradition.
“They really cut through the digital noise and prove that genuine human connection matters most, especially at Christmas,” he said.
“No matter what you include in your card, or how you choose to write your message – cards are truly a way of spreading festive cheer.”
Royal Mail is reminding customers to beat the last posting dates to ensure cards arrive in time for Christmas.
The deadline for Second Class is Wednesday 17 December.
First Class cards should be sent by Saturday 20 December.
Senders are also advised to write addresses clearly to ensure cards arrive safely.
Source link
