The world is on the cusp of a transformative era, where Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing industries and redefining the way we live. As AI continues to advance at an unprecedented pace, it's crucial to stay informed about its impact on society. Welcome to the 2026 AI Index Report, your comprehensive guide to understanding the latest trends and developments in AI.
At the Stanford Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence (HAI), our mission is to provide unbiased, rigorous, and comprehensive data for policymakers, researchers, journalists, executives, and the general public to develop a deeper understanding of the complex field of AI. The AI Index Report tracks, collates, distills, and visualizes data relating to artificial intelligence, offering a trusted resource for those seeking to navigate the rapidly evolving landscape.
As we enter this new era, it's essential to recognize the far-reaching impact of AI on various sectors. From healthcare to transportation, AI is no longer confined to the lab; it's now an integral part of daily life. The FDA has approved 223 AI-enabled medical devices in 2023 alone, while self-driving cars are becoming increasingly prevalent, with Waymo providing over 150,000 autonomous rides each week.
In 2024, private AI investment grew significantly, with U.S.-based institutions producing 40 notable AI models. While the U.S. maintains its lead in quantity, Chinese models have rapidly closed the quality gap, with performance differences on major benchmarks shrinking from double digits to near parity. Meanwhile, China continues to lead in AI publications and patents.
However, as AI becomes more pervasive, so do concerns about its safety and responsible development. Standardized RAI evaluations remain rare among major industrial model developers, but new benchmarks offer promising tools for assessing factuality and safety. Governments are also showing increased urgency, with organizations releasing frameworks focused on transparency, trustworthiness, and other core responsible AI principles.
Public sentiment towards AI is another crucial aspect to consider. While strong majorities in countries like China (83%), Indonesia (80%), and Thailand (77%) see AI products and services as more beneficial than harmful, optimism remains lower in places like Canada (40%), the United States (39%), and the Netherlands (36%). However, sentiment is shifting: since 2022, optimism has grown significantly in several previously skeptical countries.
As we move forward, it's essential to recognize the tremendous potential of AI to transform industries and improve lives. By staying informed about the latest trends and developments, we can work together to ensure that AI benefits are shared equitably and responsibly.