Business adoption of artificial intelligence has markedly accelerated in 2023-24, with generative AI. Some places, sectors and firms have been faster in the uptake, so that gaps are forming and reinforcing existing cleavages. AI champions have stood out in the most innovative countries and regions, among larger firms and in knowledge-intensive services. AI is being used as a business solution for greater competitiveness. Applications are manifold and context-specific, often tied to local conditions for diffusion. Legal and data protection concerns, alongside skills shortages, cost or technology lock-ins, can slow adoption though, contributing to emerging divides.
