Microsoft report shows global AI adoption among working-age population hits 18.8% in 2026 q2

Microsoft released its latest global AI adoption report on September 21, revealing that the percentage of working-age individuals using AI reached 18.8% in the second quarter of 2026, a 1% increase from the previous quarter. Nearly all economies saw an uptick in AI adoption. The highest adopters were the United Arab Emirates at 70.1% and Singapore at 64.3%, with Ireland, France, and Norway nearing 50%. South Korea saw the highest percentage growth, rising from 37.1% to 40.6%, while Saudi Arabia moved up the rankings from 30th to 25th. Japan experienced the largest relative increase, growing from 22.5% to 24.7%, a 10% rise. Globally, the North saw an average adoption rate of 28.8%, compared to 16.2% in the South, highlighting a growing gap. The U.S. maintained a 33.0% adoption rate, ranking 21st globally. The report underscores a global trend of increasing AI integration, with significant regional disparities. While some economies are leading the charge, others are catching up rapidly, signaling a shift in the global AI landscape.