More than two-thirds of French companies with more than 20 employees are using generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools, such as ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot, by the start of 2026, according to recent reports. These tools are designed to create text, images, or other content based on user prompts. The widespread adoption is partly due to low entry barriers, as many of these tools are accessible through standardized platforms and can be easily integrated into office software. In contrast, non-generative AI—which typically involves analyzing structured data and requires more technical setup—is used by fewer businesses. Only 30% of small and medium-sized enterprises with fewer than 50 employees use it, compared to 60% of larger companies, as reported by the Banque de France. While access to AI tools is becoming more common among employees, the economic benefits so far have been limited. Only one in three French companies reports a positive impact on productivity from AI use. Much of the current application is experimental, often limited to tasks like drafting emails, summarizing documents, or providing occasional support, rather than transforming work processes. Many companies struggle to find meaningful ways to integrate AI into their operations. About half of the businesses that haven’t adopted AI say they haven’t identified relevant tasks to automate or improve. Other challenges include limited compatibility between AI tools and existing software, as well as sector-specific constraints that hinder broader adoption. Economist Daron Acemoglu has warned that without significant changes in how organizations are structured, AI's impact on GDP growth in France may be minimal—less than 1% over ten years. A report from the Direction générale du Trésor, France’s finance ministry, points out that the country is lagging in digital technology adoption, which contributes to its productivity gap compared to the United States. In 2025, 78% of American companies were already using at least one advanced digital technology, creating a nearly 20-point gap with the French business environment. This delay in digital transformation is seen as a key factor behind France’s slower productivity growth. Economist Jean Tirole has highlighted that Europe, including France, is now largely absent from the forefront of artificial intelligence development, a result of past neglect in investing in the technology. While generative AI is becoming more common in France, the broader integration of AI into economic and organizational structures remains limited. Without significant investment in digital infrastructure, training, and strategic planning, the potential of AI to drive economic growth and efficiency may remain unrealized.