Artificial intelligence has developed rapidly in recent years. The focus is particularly on generative AI such as ChatGPT, which can create texts, images and videos. A recent Bitkom study (p. 5-7) shows how companies and the population in Germany perceive and use this technology and what challenges exist. With a potential of 330 billion euros in added value, AI offers enormous opportunities – but there are also obstacles.
The relevance of AI: more than just hype
The majority of German companies (73%, p. 7) and the population (63%, p. 7) see AI as a key technology of the future. The publication of tools such as ChatGPT in 2022 in particular made the importance of AI publicly visible. A third of companies are already investing in artificial intelligence, while 37% of respondents plan to do so within the current year (p. 9).
However, generative AI, which is used specifically for content creation, has not yet achieved the same level of penetration. Only 9% of companies are actively using it, with a further 18% planning to use it (p. 16). On the other hand, 40% of the German population have already tried generative AI, mainly for creating texts or images (p. 17). This shows a discrepancy between the openness of the population and the hesitant attitude of many companies.
Advantages and obstacles: A mixed picture
The advantages of AI are manifold. Companies that use generative AI report:
- More precise problem analyses (70% of AI users, p. 25).
- Future viability and strengthening competitiveness (59% and 55% respectively, p. 25).
- Time savings and process acceleration (63%, p. 25).
However, there are also considerable obstacles. Companies cite these in particular:
- Regulatory uncertainties: 82% of AI users fear restrictions due to data protection or the new AI Act (p. 27).
- Technological hurdles: Many complain about the lack of quality of results (65% of AI users, p. 27).
- Human resources: A lack of expertise and insufficient data are further obstacles (p. 27).
These challenges urgently need to be addressed in order to fully exploit the potential of AI.
Regulation and the AI Act: curse or blessing?
The European AI Act, which came into force in August 2024, continues to raise questions. While 62% of companies believe that the AI Act will make the use of AI legally secure, 45% fear that it could hinder development in Europe (p. 53). Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in particular are dependent on clear and practical assistance.
It is evident that 69% of companies need support in implementing the AI Act (p. 54). The call for more government support and investment in AI infrastructures is becoming ever louder.
Artificial intelligence at coeo: A look into practice
The company coeo took an important step in receivables management in 2024 with the introduction of the modular AI ecosystem “cAI”. This system combines automation, data analysis and machine learning to make receivables processes more efficient and customer-friendly. According to coeo, the focus of cAI is on smooth communication with debtors, the optimization of payment processes and the integration of AI into existing systems. In this way, coeo demonstrates how AI can be used in concrete terms not only to improve internal processes, but also to increase customer satisfaction.
A look into the future: what needs to change?
The following steps are necessary to develop Germany into a leading AI location:
- Education and further training: 61% of employees would like to receive further training on AI. Companies should address this with targeted training courses.
- Regulatory clarity: The AI Act must be designed in such a way that it promotes innovation instead of inhibiting it.
- Investment in research and infrastructure: Germany must provide more funding in order to compete with the USA and China.
“Germany can become an AI country – but the road is long.”
With a strategic approach, Germany could significantly improve its position in international comparison and establish AI in the economy in the long term.
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