Qualcomm Technologies Corp. said it expects Southeast Asia to be a global hub for artificial intelligence (AI), as the region continues its strong position on the global AI index and spearheading technological innovation.
Kedar Kondap, SVP of product management at Qualcomm Technologies noted that the rise of AI in the region “marks a significant disruption in the marketplace, reshaping industries and business models in a way that the world has never seen before.”
“For many, the term ‘AI’ evokes images of futuristic technologies and far-off possibilities. But in Southeast Asia, the future is already unfolding,” Kondap said. “As AI takes center stage, this region is witnessing a massive shift in how businesses operate, interact with customers and evolve.”
Southeast Asia is rapidly emerging as a key player in the global artificial intelligence (AI) landscape, with significant investments and transformative trends shaping its future. From soaring spending to revolutionary workplace integration, the region is poised to reap the benefits of AI’s burgeoning potential.
Kondap, in a media announcement in Singapore, rattled off a number of AI-related trends including AI spending, its impact on productivity, and the rise of on-device AI.
“The numbers speak for themselves. Southeast Asia’s AI spending is projected to skyrocket to a staggering $650 million by 2026. This substantial investment underscores the region’s unwavering commitment to embracing AI technologies. It reflects a strategic move to leverage AI’s potential to drive economic growth, enhance competitiveness, and address pressing societal challenges,” Kondap said.
In terms of productivity, the executive said by 2028, AI tools are anticipated to save over 11 billion work hours per week in the broader Asia Pacific region. “This staggering figure highlights the transformative power of AI in boosting productivity and efficiency. Businesses and individuals alike stand to benefit from streamlined workflows and the ability to focus on strategic, value-added tasks,” he said.
The rise of on-device AI
Kondap further said a crucial trend fueling this AI revolution is the increasing integration of on-device AI.
Companies like Qualcomm—known for its market-leading Snapdragon processors–are leading the charge, pushing for powerful AI capabilities to be embedded directly into consumer devices.
“This evolution promises smarter, faster, and more secure devices, delivering enhanced user experiences through seamless AI integration. From personalized recommendations to advanced image processing, on-device AI is set to redefine how we interact with technology.
“Southeast Asia is on the cusp of an AI-driven revolution. The region’s commitment to investment, combined with the transformative potential of AI in productivity and the workplace, paints a compelling picture of the future. As on-device AI continues to advance and businesses embrace AI-powered solutions, Southeast Asia is poised to emerge as a global hub for AI innovation, driving economic growth and enhancing the lives of its citizens,” Kondap said.
