Gartner projects worldwide AI spending at $2.52 trillion in 2026, up 44% from $1.76 trillion in 2025. The forecast extends to $3.34 trillion in 2027.
AI infrastructure accounts for the largest share and drives most of the growth. Spending on AI-optimized servers rises 49% in 2026, reaching 17% of total AI spend. Infrastructure additions from technology providers contribute $401 billion in 2026 alone.
AI infrastructure accounts for the largest share and drives most of the growth. Spending on AI-optimized servers rises 49% in 2026, reaching 17% of total AI spend. Infrastructure additions from technology providers contribute $401 billion in 2026 alone.
Source: Gartner, January 2026.
Gartner VP Analyst John-David Lovelock notes that AI adoption depends more on organizational readiness and proven returns than on budget size. In 2026, AI remains in the Trough of Disillusionment phase of the hype cycle. Enterprises will primarily acquire AI capabilities through existing software vendors rather than new high-risk projects.
The bulk of near-term spending supports foundational build-out by providers, particularly in hardware and infrastructure. Software and services follow but grow from a smaller base.
Investors tracking AI exposure should focus on companies positioned in infrastructure supply chains and established enterprise software providers capturing incremental spend.
Gartner VP Analyst John-David Lovelock notes that AI adoption depends more on organizational readiness and proven returns than on budget size. In 2026, AI remains in the Trough of Disillusionment phase of the hype cycle. Enterprises will primarily acquire AI capabilities through existing software vendors rather than new high-risk projects.
The bulk of near-term spending supports foundational build-out by providers, particularly in hardware and infrastructure. Software and services follow but grow from a smaller base.
Investors tracking AI exposure should focus on companies positioned in infrastructure supply chains and established enterprise software providers capturing incremental spend.