Ireland has emerged as a global leader in the AI era, ranking fourth worldwide for AI diffusion (adoption and usage) according to Microsoft's latest AI Diffusion Report. This achievement reflects Ireland's strong digital infrastructure, skilled workforce, and commitment to innovation, placing Ireland alongside nations like Singapore, the UAE, and Norway in shaping the future of technology.

Globally, AI is spreading at an unprecedented pace. The report reveals that 1.2 billion people have used AI tools in under three years, making AI the fastest-adopted technology in history, outpacing the internet, personal computers, and smartphones. For Ireland, this rapid uptake signals a thriving ecosystem where businesses and individuals are embracing AI to boost productivity, creativity, and competitiveness.

Recent research from Trinity College Dublin, in partnership with Microsoft Ireland, reinforces this trajectory. The AI Economy Index 2025 predicts that AI could add €250 billion to Ireland's economy by 2035, with 91% of organisations already using AI - nearly double 2024's figure. However, the study highlights the need for inclusive skilling and governance to ensure SMEs and the public sector keep pace.

Insights from Microsoft's Ireland Work Trend Index 2025 further underline AI's transformative role in the workplace. Adoption is up 27% year-on-year, with 54% of workers believing AI skills broaden career opportunities and 41% saying AI helps them work smarter. Yet, access and training gaps remain, making employer-led skilling critical to unlocking AI's full potential.

As AI becomes a general-purpose technology, Ireland's position shows what's possible when innovation meets investment. The challenge now is ensuring responsible and inclusive adoption so every organisation and worker can share in the benefits. To fully participate in an AI-driven economy, people need the digital skills and technical proficiencies to use AI tools productively and responsibly. Without this foundation, AI risks becoming a technology that only a segment of society can leverage, deepening inequality rather than broadening opportunity.

Catherine Doyle, General Manager, Microsoft Ireland, commented; "I'm delighted to share that Ireland ranks 4th globally for AI diffusion - a testament to the creativity, ambition, and collaboration happening across the country. The AI Diffusion Report, published by Microsoft's AI for Good Lab, reveals that Ireland stands out as a global leader, behind only Singapore, the UAE, and Norway. This achievement reflects the strength of our digital infrastructure, our skilled talent base, and our national commitment to innovation.

Ireland's position shows what's possible when innovation is matched with investment. As AI becomes a general-purpose technology, our focus must remain on inclusive access and responsible deployment to ensure its benefits are shared by all."

Note: Ranking is adjusted for population size (per capita basis) to ensure fair comparison between countries. Read the full AI Diffusion Report here.

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