As Artificial Intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly prevalent in everyday life, AI-powered applications—such as autonomous vehicles and drones—are expected to revolutionize industries and transform how we live, work, and engage with the world around us. However, the success of these technologies hinges not just on their technical capabilities but also on public perception, with trust playing a critical role in their acceptance and widespread use. Through a series of studies focused on autonomous vehicles and drones, this presentation shows how public perceptions of AI-powered applications are influenced by factors such as news media attention, trust in AI systems and engineers, and perceived explainability. By discussing these findings, the presentation also addresses the implications and potential strategies for building public trust through effective communication, facilitating the smoother integration of AI-powered innovations into society.