A study of over 9,000 employees reveals that those who regularly use AI in their jobs are working as much as an hour and a half more per day than their non-AI-using peers, challenging assumptions about AI-driven productivity gains.
- AI users work up to 90 minutes longer per day than non-users
- Heavy AI users switch apps more and have shorter focus periods
- Only 3% of organizations meet AI-driven productivity goals
What happened
New research by ActivTrak analyzed digital activity data from over 9,000 employees across 467 companies between April and September 2026. The study found that employees who use AI tools regularly work longer hours—about 8.4 to 9.1 hours daily—compared to 7.6 hours for those who do not use AI. Heavy AI users, who engage with AI for over 45 minutes in multiple daily sessions, also continued working significantly after hours, adding around 18 minutes more than non-users.
The report also highlighted behavioral effects associated with AI usage. Heavy AI users switched between applications more frequently and had fewer uninterrupted focus sessions, though one benefit noted was reduced time spent in meetings, with just 3% of their day consumed by meetings compared to 5% for non-users. Job roles such as software engineers and operations managers were among those identified as heavy AI users, frequently interacting with specialized and browser-based AI tools.
Why it matters
This study challenges the widespread belief that AI automatically boosts productivity and reduces workload. Instead, it suggests that AI use can lead to longer work hours and increased task-switching, resulting in fragmented attention. These findings raise concerns about employee well-being and the real impact of AI tools on efficiency in practice.
Given that only 3% of organizations report hitting their AI-driven productivity and cost-saving targets, reliance on AI alone is insufficient. Business leaders must focus beyond mere adoption of AI technologies, aligning usage with measurable improvements in performance and avoiding unintended consequences like extended workdays and diminished focus.
What to watch next
As AI adoption continues to grow—with 85% of business leaders planning increased spending on AI in 2027—monitoring its actual effects on workforce productivity will be critical. Companies need to develop strategies that integrate AI without increasing employee workload or fragmenting concentration.
Further studies may explore how organizations can better harness AI tools to truly enhance efficiency without contributing to burnout. Tracking changes in work patterns, task management, and employee satisfaction will help determine if AI can meet its promise or if new approaches are needed.