Gartner forecasts worldwide AI spending to reach $2.7 trillion in 2026. This is a 49.5% increase from 2025. Demand for AI infrastructure remains strong despite memory pricing pressures. Vendors are embedding agentic AI into existing software to maintain relevance. Enterprises use these features to improve efficiency and automate workflows. GenAI is in the Trough of Disillusionment in 2026. Service providers see more demand for smaller indirect AI projects. AI services are forecast to reach a $1.2 trillion opportunity by 2030. Growth in AI application development platforms rose from 28% to 39%. Generative AI model spending growth increased from 110% to 117%. Gartner now separates cross-functional agents from AI software in its forecast.
What changed
Previous forecast had 47% growth for 2026 and 110% growth for generative AI models.
What it unlocks
Tracking AI usage costs and embedding AI features into existing workflows.
- $2.7 trillion total AI spending in 2026
- 49.5% year-over-year growth
- $1.2 trillion AI services opportunity by 2030
- 117% growth in generative AI models spending
Sources