AI agents are thriving in software development but barely exist anywhere else, Anthropic study finds — 2026-02-23
Summary
A study by Anthropic reveals that AI agents are predominantly used in software development, making up nearly half of all agent tool calls via public APIs. Other sectors, such as customer service and finance, show minimal adoption, indicating that AI agent use is still in its early stages. The study also highlights that AI agents, like Claude Code, operate autonomously for longer periods, with a significant increase in their independent operational time from October 2025 to January 2026.
Why This Matters
The findings underscore the potential of AI agents to transform productivity in various sectors, although their current use is largely confined to software development. This suggests a significant opportunity for growth and innovation as other industries begin to explore and integrate AI agents into their operations. Understanding the current state of adoption can help businesses and policymakers anticipate challenges and opportunities in AI integration.
How You Can Use This Info
Professionals in non-tech sectors can start exploring AI agent capabilities to identify areas where these tools could improve efficiency and reduce workload. By learning from the software development sector, businesses can develop strategies for gradual AI adoption, which includes training staff to trust and effectively manage these tools. Additionally, staying informed about AI advancements can provide a competitive edge as these technologies become more widespread.