At the India AI Impact Summit 2026, Microsoft announced a massive global commitment. The company plans to invest $50 billion by 2030. This investment will expand artificial intelligence infrastructure, innovation, and skills across the Global South. However, Microsoft warned about a widening AI adoption gap.
According to the company, developed economies adopt AI at nearly double the rate. Consequently, this imbalance could deepen economic inequality globally. Brad Smith, Vice Chair and President of Microsoft, addressed the concern directly. He stressed that the divide continues to widen.
He warned that unequal AI access threatens economic growth. Moreover, it limits AI’s broader promise of expanding global prosperity. Drawing a historical parallel, Smith referenced unequal electricity access. He cautioned that AI could replicate similar disparities. Therefore, he urged urgent global cooperation to prevent long-term inequality.
A Five-Part Strategy for Inclusive AI
Microsoft unveiled a structured five-part plan at the summit. The strategy focuses on infrastructure, skills, language inclusion, innovation, and measurement.
First, the company will build AI-ready digital infrastructure in emerging economies. Additionally, it will expand AI and digital skill training programs. Furthermore, Microsoft plans to strengthen multilingual AI capabilities. It will also support local innovation ecosystems across regions. Finally, the company will improve AI diffusion tracking. Consequently, policymakers can measure adoption progress effectively.
Smith explained that the program ensures real AI diffusion at scale. He emphasized accessibility, trust, and local relevance. Importantly, Microsoft aims to make AI practical for community needs. Therefore, it seeks measurable and inclusive outcomes.
VIDEO | AI Impact Summit 2026: President of Microsoft, Brad Smith says, “I think this event is hugely important. The world has come to India so that we can think together about what we can do to bring AI to more of the world, especially the global south. And we have more work to… pic.twitter.com/VdJenq3OZ5
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 19, 2026
Massive Infrastructure and Connectivity Push
In the last fiscal year alone, Microsoft invested over $8 billion. This funding supported data centers across the Global South. Regions included India, Mexico, Africa, South America, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.
Moreover, the company continues expanding internet connectivity in underserved areas. It aims to reach 250 million people globally. So far, Microsoft claims it has connected over 117 million Africans. These connections happened through strategic partnerships. The company argues reliable internet remains foundational for AI adoption. Without connectivity, communities cannot access AI tools meaningfully. Therefore, infrastructure investment remains central to narrowing the AI gap.
Also Read: AI Impact Summit 2026….https://www.thebharatpost.co/ai-impact-summit-2026-extended-till-february-21-amid-massive-crowds-in-delhi/
India at the Core of AI Skilling
India holds a prominent position in Microsoft’s strategy. The company plans to train 5.6 million Indians in 2025. Furthermore, it aims to equip 20 million Indians with AI skills by 2030. These programs target students, developers, and professionals. Under the Elevate initiative, Microsoft launched “Elevate for Educators.” The program supports two million teachers nationwide. Additionally, it covers over 200,000 institutions. Ultimately, it aims to reach nearly eight million students. Earlier, Microsoft committed $17.5 billion for AI investments in India. Consequently, India remains central to its digital expansion plans.
Strengthening Multilingual AI
Microsoft also prioritizes multilingual AI development. It invests in datasets and evaluation tools for underrepresented languages. Therefore, AI systems can function beyond English-speaking markets. This approach enhances inclusivity and practical usability. By supporting diverse languages, Microsoft seeks broader accessibility. Consequently, communities across the Global South can benefit.
Microsoft framed the $50 billion commitment as both economic and moral. Leadership described the challenge as shaping the AI-driven future. The company believes AI must serve global prosperity equitably. However, outcomes depend on effective implementation. Ultimately, success will rely on measurable adoption and real-world impact. Therefore, the coming decade will determine AI’s inclusiveness worldwide.
