Current AI Adoption Rates
AI adoption among firms has reached 18% by January 2026, with expectations to grow to 22% within six months, according to NBER. For the detailed country-level cut behind these aggregate figures, see Alice Labs' 2026 AI adoption benchmark.
This growth is driven by increased integration of AI technologies across various business functions. Reports from AI Understanding highlight that 78% of organizations are using AI in at least one function. Analysts tracking these curves usually cite our full artificial intelligence report library alongside NBER.
| Industry | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Finance | 15% | 20% |
| Healthcare | 12% | 18% |
| Manufacturing | 10% | 15% |
Firms using AI by January 2026
NBER, 2026
AI Scaling in Enterprises
In short
Enterprises are moving from AI experimentation to impactful scaling, transforming operations for measurable outcomes.
Enterprises are transitioning from AI pilot projects to full-scale implementations, as reported by Deloitte's Tech Trends 2026.
This shift is transforming operations and enhancing workforce capabilities, with a 50% increase in worker access to AI tools in 2025.
| Metric | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| AI Projects in Production | 40% | 60% |
| Workforce Access to AI | 50% | 75% |
Increase in worker access to AI in 2025
Deloitte, 2026
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Book a Discovery CallGlobal AI Adoption Trends
In short
AI adoption varies globally, with OECD countries showing significant growth in AI integration across firms.
Globally, AI adoption is on the rise, with 20.2% of firms in OECD countries using AI in 2025, according to the OECD report.
Regional differences are evident, with North America and Europe leading in AI integration, while Asia-Pacific shows rapid growth.
| Region | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North America | 18% | 22% | 25% |
| Europe | 16% | 20% | 23% |
| Asia-Pacific | 14% | 18% | 21% |
Firms using AI in OECD countries in 2025
OECD, 2025
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Book a Discovery CallAI Usage Growth Trends
In short
AI usage is growing rapidly, with significant increases in the number of projects and workforce access.
AI usage is expanding, with a 50% increase in worker access to AI tools in 2025, as reported by Deloitte.
This growth is reflected in the rising number of AI projects across enterprises, driven by technological advancements and strategic integration.
| Metric | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Project Growth Rate | 30% | 45% |
| Workforce Access | 50% | 70% |
Increase in worker access to AI in 2025
Deloitte, 2026
Enterprise AI Trends Data
In short
Enterprise AI trends show a shift towards more integrated and scalable AI solutions, impacting various business functions.
Enterprises are increasingly integrating AI into core business functions, as highlighted by AI Understanding.
This trend is shaping business strategies and operations, with 78% of organizations using AI in at least one function by 2026.
| Trend | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| AI Integration | 65% | 78% |
| Scaling Strategies | 50% | 70% |
Organizations using AI in 2026
AI Understanding, 2026
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Book a Discovery CallAbout the Authors & Reviewers
CEO & Co-Founder, Alice Labs
CEO & Co-Founder at Alice Labs. Author of 7 research reports on AI adoption, governance and labor markets cited across EU, OECD and US benchmarks.
- 8+ years in AI strategy & implementation
- Top-5 AI Speaker, Sweden (Mindley 2025)
- 100+ enterprise AI engagements
Co-Founder, Alice Labs
Co-Founder at Alice Labs. Builds AI automation, agent workflows and integration systems that hold up in real business operations.
- AI automation & agent systems lead
- Workflow design across 100+ deployments
- Specialist in RAG, integrations & APIs
Frequently Asked Questions
What will AI look like in 2026?
In 2026, AI is expected to be more integrated into business operations, with a focus on scalable solutions and measurable outcomes. Enterprises will likely see increased AI adoption across various functions, driven by advancements in technology and strategic integration.
Which 5 jobs will survive AI?
Jobs that require complex problem-solving, creativity, emotional intelligence, and human interaction are likely to survive AI. These include roles in healthcare, education, creative industries, and leadership positions where human judgment and empathy are crucial.
What is the AI trend in 2026?
The AI trend in 2026 is towards increased adoption and integration across enterprises, with a focus on scaling AI solutions for impactful outcomes. Organizations are expected to enhance workforce access to AI tools and technologies, driving innovation and efficiency.
What will happen in 2026 with AI?
In 2026, AI is anticipated to become more pervasive in business operations, with significant growth in adoption rates. Enterprises will likely focus on scaling AI projects and integrating AI into core functions to achieve strategic goals and improve operational efficiency.
AI Talent Demand Statistics 2026: Most In-Demand Roles & Salaries
Next in AI Statistics & DataAI Adoption by Company Size: Enterprise vs SMB vs Startup Data
Further reading
- NBER 2026 report· nber.org
- Deloitte Tech Trends 2026· deloitte.com
- OECD AI report· oecd.org
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Sources
- AI Adoption Trends 2026Bonney et al. · NBER“18% of firms used AI in at least one function by January 2026.”
- Tech Trends 2026Deloitte · Deloitte“AI is transitioning from experimentation to impactful scaling.”
- AI Adoption in OECD CountriesOECD · OECD“20.2% of firms in OECD countries reported using AI in 2025.”
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