For a long time, artificial intelligence stayed stuck in the “testing” stage, mostly limited to trial chatbots and small experiments. Experts said that in 2026, things are clearly changing, with companies now pushing AI into real-world use where it can actually do meaningful work.
A 2025 report by Gartner said nearly 30% of AI pilot projects were likely to be dropped because of poor data or unclear benefits. At the same time, KPMG found that although 70% of businesses are using AI, only 31% have managed to fully implement it in their operations.
Closing the “Pilot Gap”
Today, the real challenge is not just using AI, but making it useful in everyday business work. Experts noted that companies are now moving from simple AI tools to “agents” that can actually perform tasks instead of just answering questions.
In this context, Kochi-based Riafy Technologies was recently named a Google Cloud Partner of the Year at Google Cloud Next 2026. The award, given in the Social Impact: Accessibility Innovation category, highlights how AI can make digital services easier for people to use.
“We are delighted to announce the launch of our AI-powered travel booking assistant, 6Eskai… This new feature underscores our dedication to technological innovation and the enhancement of customer experience,” said Neetan Chopra, Chief Digital & Information Officer at IndiGo.
AI Agents in Action
Unlike basic chatbots, Riafy claims that its R10 platform is designed to complete tasks from start to finish. This means AI is now handling processes that earlier needed human involvement.
In aviation, IndiGo’s “6Eskai” allows passengers to book tickets, check in, and choose seats through WhatsApp in one place. In retail and automotive, brands like Lakmé and MG Motor are using similar tools for customer interaction and sales. In banking, Federal Bank is using AI agents to improve customer service with systems that learn and adapt over time.
AI Becoming Part of Daily Business
Founded in 2013, Riafy claims to have built its expertise in consumer-focused AI over the years, which now helps it operate at a larger enterprise level. Its systems support 23 global languages and are used across seven major industries.
This shift matches a larger trend identified by Deloitte, which predicted a fourfold rise in the use of “agentic AI” in 2026. As markets like India focus on making digital services simpler and faster, companies are now prioritising AI systems that are reliable and can handle large volumes of real-time work.
For businesses, the takeaway in 2026 is simple: AI is no longer just for experiments. It is becoming a core part of how companies operate every day.