Global IT spending is expected to rise this year to $6.31 trillion, according to a new forecast from Gartner, a 13.5% increase compared to 2025. According to the research firm, AI is the single most important driver behind the growth, with investments in AI infrastructure, in particular, driving the trend. The data center systems segment is expected to grow by a whopping 55.8% during the year, by far the fastest growing of all categories. At the same time, IT services continue to account for the largest share of total spending and are expected to exceed $1.87 trillion this year. Software is also showing strong growth, particularly in generative AI. Growth is also expected in the device market, though at a significantly slower pace. Overall, the market is expected to reach approximately $856 billion, though Gartner says this growth is being slowed by rising memory prices.