AI transforms work: 50% of Americans use it in jobs by 2026

Artificial intelligence continues to rapidly transform work processes, as confirmed by new Gallup data. By the first quarter of 2026, about half of all working Americans are using AI in their jobs, marking a significant milestone for the labor market.

According to the study, the share of employees who use AI at least occasionally has grown from 21% in mid-2023 to 50% in early 2026. Active usage is also accelerating: 13% of respondents now work with AI daily, while the combined share of those using it daily or several times a week has reached a record 28%.

The spread of AI is accompanied by notable changes within companies. Around 27% of employees at organizations adopting these technologies reported significant transformations in their work environment over the past year. Meanwhile, companies actively implementing AI are more likely to simultaneously hire new staff and reduce headcount, highlighting automation's dual effect.

Despite this, attitudes toward AI remain largely positive. About 65% of workers believe the technology boosts productivity and efficiency, though some respondents note that AI's impact is limited to specific tasks like processing and summarizing information.

Overall, the research shows that AI has already become an integral part of modern work, but its full integration into business processes still requires time and adaptation from companies.