Observed Signal · Sep 22, 2026 · Forecast Update · Source: Retail-News · Impact: 4/5 · Sentiment: Positive
Gartner Raises AI Spending Forecast; Infrastructure Remains Largest Segment
Gartner projects global AI spending to reach approximately $2.67 trillion in 2026, a 49.5% increase year-over-year, revising up from its May forecast of $2.59 trillion. Infrastructure remains the dominant category, expected to account for about $1.48 trillion (56% of total). AI services and software are forecasted to reach $576 billion and $462 billion respectively. Spending on AI agents and assistants is set to grow to $29.2 billion in 2026 and over $65 billion by 2027. Generative AI model spending is projected at $28.3 billion, with growth expectations raised to 117%. The firm also forecasts 2027 AI spending to reach $3.64 trillion, more than doubling from 2025 levels.
Major analyst forecast showing robust growth in AI spending, directly impacting technology infrastructure and AI adoption trends relevant to AdTech.
Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- Gartner forecasts global AI spending to reach $2.67 trillion in 2026, a 49.5% increase year-over-year.
- Infrastructure is the largest AI spending segment in 2026 at $1.48 trillion, representing 56% of total.
- AI services spending is projected at $576 billion, and AI software at $462 billion in 2026.
- Spending on AI agents and assistants is projected to rise to $29.2 billion in 2026 and exceed $65 billion by 2027.
- Gartner predicts AI spending will reach $3.64 trillion by 2027, more than double 2025 levels.
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