Global AI Adoption Soars, But a Deep Divide Persists Between North and South
Microsoft’s newly released AI Diffusion Report for November 2025 reveals that generative AI is being adopted at an unprecedented rate globally. Over 1.2 billion people are now utilizing generative AI tools, surpassing the adoption rates of smartphones and the internet, making AI the fastest-integrated technology in modern usage.
A Growing Digital Divide
Despite this rapid growth, the report highlights a significant concern: a nearly 50% gap exists between countries in the Global North and those in the Global South in terms of AI adoption, digital infrastructure, and skills. This asymmetry poses a threat to global economic competitiveness if left unaddressed. It creates a scenario where some regions, particularly those in Africa, risk being left behind in the AI revolution, hindering their potential for economic growth and innovation.
In conclusion, while the adoption of AI is experiencing a historic boom worldwide, the widening disparity between developed and developing nations presents a critical challenge that demands immediate attention to ensure equitable access and opportunity for all.
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