New figures show that Europe is pushing ahead with artificial intelligence as daily use rises fast. A new report from Microsoft says more than 1.2 billion people worldwide have tried AI tools since 2022. This rapid growth puts AI ahead of earlier technologies that took longer to reach large global audiences.
Ireland tops EU rankings
Ireland stands out inside the European Union, with 41.7 per cent of people using AI in work or daily life. France follows with 40.9 per cent, while Spain reaches 39.7 per cent, showing strong enthusiasm across western Europe. These countries benefit from strong economies and good technology networks that support quick adoption.
Big gap across the continent
At the other end sit Romania and Greece, where regular use reaches only 15.3 and 17.7 per cent. These figures highlight a clear divide between wealthier states and those facing slower digital development. Many eastern and southern regions still lack reliable infrastructure, which limits widespread use of new tools.
Non-EU countries push ahead
Norway records 45.3 per cent and remains one of Europe’s most active AI users.
The United Kingdom also shows high engagement, with 36.4 per cent of people using AI regularly. Both countries have strong digital sectors that support fast growth in emerging technologies.
Global divide remains strong
Microsoft notes that adoption closely matches economic strength across the world. Around 23 per cent of people in the Global North use AI, compared with 13 per cent in the Global South. Almost four billion people still live in areas with weak electricity, slow connectivity, or limited computing power. The report warns that these gaps reflect deeper differences in education, language access, and long-term investment.
