Background: The rapid proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies has prompted growing scholarly and policy interest in ensuring that such systems serve human values and contribute positively to sustainable development. Human-Centered AI (HCAI) is an emerging paradigm that repositions AI design around human dignity, agency, and societal benefit rather than purely technical optimization.
Objective: This paper investigates the theoretical underpinnings, operational frameworks, and societal implications of HCAI in the context of sustainable innovation. It aims to synthesize current evidence, propose a multi-dimensional framework, and identify future research priorities.
Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted across Scopus, Web of Science, and IEEE Xplore databases (2018–2025), supplemented by comparative analysis of six HCAI technology domains and expert consultation. Societal impact indicators were operationalized across three dimensions: user acceptance, innovation effectiveness, and sustainability metrics.
Results: Findings indicate that HCAI approaches yield higher user acceptance rates (mean 71.5%), stronger alignment with sustainable development goals (SDGs), and measurable improvements in digital inclusion. Explainable AI and conversational agents demonstrate the most favorable adoption profiles, while autonomous agents remain constrained by ethical governance gaps.
Conclusion: HCAI constitutes a viable pathway for reconciling technological innovation with social responsibility. Sustained progress requires interdisciplinary governance, participatory design, and robust ethical auditing mechanisms embedded throughout the AI lifecycle.