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The global software market size was USD 659.17 billion in 2023, calculated at USD 736.96 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach around USD 2,248.33 billion by 2034, expanding at a CAGR of 11.8% from 2024 to 2034.
The global software market size accounted for USD 736.96 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach around USD 2,248.33 billion by 2034, expanding at a CAGR of 11.8% from 2024 to 2034. The North America software market size reached USD 276.85 billion in 2023.
The U.S. software market size was estimated at USD 194.17 billion in 2023 and is predicted to be worth around USD 676.46 billion by 2034, at a CAGR of 12% from 2024 to 2034.
North America dominated the market in 2023 due to the adoption of cutting-edge software among various industries. Industries in the region, such as technology, banking, healthcare, and e-commerce industries, heavily use software solutions to manage their operation. North America is at the forefront of technological advancements. Additionally, the presence of a large number of tech giants in the region are developing advanced industry-specific software, which propels the market.
The market in Asia Pacific is projected to grow at a fastest CAGR in the coming years. The market growth in the region is attributed to the proliferation of smart devices and the rapid expansion of IT and e-commerce industries. Moreover, regional players are collaborating to develop solutions that are user-friendly.
The software market refers to the industry that encompasses developing, distributing, and selling software products and services. The software market is characterized by a wide range of software types and categories. Some common types of software include operating systems (e.g., windows, macOS), productivity software (e.g., word processors, spreadsheets), business applications (e.g., CRM, ERP), design and multimedia software (e.g., graphic design tools, video editing software), and specialized industry-specific software (e.g., healthcare management systems, banking software). The software market has been increasing significantly in recent years. The transition to cloud computing and software-as-a-service (SaaS) models is a significant development.
The increased emphasis on software development for mobile devices is another trend. Mobile applications have become a crucial component of people's everyday lives due to the widespread use of smartphones and tablets. For instance, according to a report, about 1.39 billion smartphones were sold worldwide in 2022 and about 1.34 billion units were sold in 2023.
The emergence of AI is revolutionizing the market
Artificial intelligence (AI) has a significant impact on the software market. Natural language processing and machine learning have the ability to automate repetitive tasks in the software development process, reducing human errors and increasing efficiency. With AI and ML technologies, software can automate procedures, make informed predictions, and improve user experiences. Applications powered by AI have been developed as a result of this trend in different sectors.
The usage of smartphones, tablets, and internet access has increased dramatically in the past few years, resulting in increased demand for mobile and online apps. Mobile and web applications are essential for corporate and consumer communication. As a result of software developers creating and delivering cutting-edge and streamlined mobile and web apps, this trend expands the software market. Organizations are placing a high priority on data security and privacy due to the frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks and data breaches. Strong data protection and cybersecurity software solutions are in high demand. The software industry is addressing this need by providing cutting-edge compliance solutions, encryption technology, and security applications.
| Report Coverage | Details |
| Market Size in 2023 | USD 659.17 Billion |
| Market Size in 2024 | USD 736.96 Billion |
| Market Size by 2034 | USD 2,248.33 Billion |
| Growth Rate from 2024 to 2034 | CAGR of 11.8% |
| Largest Market | North America |
| Base Year | 2023 |
| Forecast Period | 2024 to 2034 |
| Segments Covered | By Enterprise, By Vertical, By Deployment, and By Type |
| Regions Covered | North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa |
Cloud computing and remote employment
Cloud computing has completely changed the software industry by providing scalable and affordable infrastructure. Cloud-based software solutions are being used by businesses in greater numbers to increase accessibility, save costs, and streamline operations. The demand for software solutions that promote collaboration and communication across geographically distributed teams has increased as a result of globalization and remote work. Both enterprises and individuals now require software solutions for remote project management, video conferencing, and virtual collaboration.
Digitization
Rising digitization resulted in the growing adoption of IoT and smart devices. However, these devices require sophisticated software to run. This, in turn, propels the demand for software that supports these devices.
Software update
The software market is expanding as a result of technical developments, yet these advancements can also pose difficulties. Frequent technological advancements necessitate ongoing software updates in order to remain competitive. It may be challenging for businesses to keep up with the rate of change and invest in research and development. It can be challenging to guarantee compatibility and interoperability between different software engineers as software systems get more complex. When attempting to link software solutions from several suppliers or when upgrading existing systems, integration problems might occur. The adoption and application of software solutions may be hampered as a result.
Data Security
Data security and privacy have evolved into major issues in the software industry. There is a rising need for reliable cybersecurity software and solutions to secure sensitive data due to increased cyber threats and data breaches. For instance, according to a report published by Forbes, in 2023, the incidence of cyberattacks has increased significantly across the globe, resulting in over 343 million victims. The rate of data breaches increased by 72% between 2021 and 2023.
Increasing demand for AI-powered software
There are several possibilities for creating AI-powered software that streamline operations. AI-powered software offer insightful data, improve judgment, and enhance user experience by reducing human errors. Numerous industries, including healthcare, banking, retail, and manufacturing, require AI-driven software solutions, to streamline and automate processes.
Legal and regulatory issues
The software industry is governed by several laws, including those pertaining to data protection, intellectual property rights, and business-specific rules. It can be difficult and time-consuming to ensure compliance with these rules, especially for software firms that operate across different jurisdictions. Non-compliance may have legal repercussions and harm the reputation of the business.
Rapid shifts towards remote labor and virtual operations were brought on by the pandemic. To support distant collaboration, communication, and business continuity, organizations adopted digital technologies. The demand for software programs and platforms that facilitate remote work, video conferencing, project management, and cybersecurity increased as a result. Organizations used cloud computing to help their operations as remote work became more common. The ability to access data, apps, and resources from a distance has been made possible by cloud-based software solutions.
During the pandemic, the demand for cloud services, notably software-as-a-service (SaaS) solutions, increased significantly. During the pandemic, the healthcare industry faced unprecedented difficulties. However, usage of software programs that assists in telemedicine, remote patient monitoring, contact tracking, vaccination delivery, and data analytics spiked in demand for health technology (Health Tech) software solutions.
The need for educational technology software solutions increased as more schools and educational institutions shifted to remote learning. Virtual classrooms, learning management systems, and software for creating digital material all saw significant growth. During the epidemic, EdTech providers saw a rise in use and expansion. Cyber risks and assaults increased as a result of the pandemic. The significance of cybersecurity solutions increased as a result. In order to protect their data and provide enhanced threat detection, businesses started investing in software solutions.
The large enterprises segment dominated the market in 2023. Large enterprises run complicated operations; therefore, they need efficient software solutions to handle several facets of their operations. Large firms frequently use business intelligence tools, supply chain management solutions, customer relationship management (CRM) software, and enterprise resource planning (ERP) software. Rising investments by large enterprises in deploying cutting-edge software solutions drive the segment.
The SMEs segment is projected to grow rapidly during the forecast period due to the increasing number of startups across the globe. Startups are frequently small or mid-sized firms. They often look for flexible software solutions that are economical and help them start and grow their businesses. The rising requirements from SMEs to minimize operating expenses and streamline workflows increase the demand for cutting-edge software.
The IT & telecom segment held a large market share in 2023 due to the rapid expansion of the IT industry across the globe. The proliferation of 5G technology requires advanced software solution to leverage the high-speed connectivity. Furthermore, IT businesses heavily use smart devices and IoT, which require sophisticated software to manage the data.
The BFSI segment is likely to register a considerable growth rate in the coming years. The BFSI industry heavily uses software solutions for banking operations, payment processing, risk management, and fraud detection. Software solutions that enable online banking, mobile payments, and financial analytics are in great demand as a result of the growth of digital banking. The segment growth is further attributed to the rising usage of finance apps. According to the Mobile Apps Growth Statistics, 6 out of 10 people prefer online finance apps to manage their finances.
The e-commerce segment is anticipated to expand at a rapid pace during the forecast period. The rise of e-commerce and online shopping has led to a digital shift in the retail sector. Online retail administration, inventory management, order processing, customer relationship management, and logistics all depend heavily on software solutions. Retailers frequently use point-of-sale (POS) systems, e-commerce platforms, and consumer analytics software. The retail sector increasingly uses software for supply chain optimization, thereby boosting the segment.
The on-premises segment held a major share of the market in 2023. On-premises software is the process of installing and using software applications on a company's own servers and infrastructure. On-premises deployment has always been the preferred method among businesses or enterprise, as it offers enhanced security. This kind of deployment gives businesses immediate access to their software and data, making it appropriate for sectors with strict security and compliance standards, including government, healthcare, and finance.
The cloud segment is projected to expand rapidly in the coming years, as cloud software offers scalability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness by enabling users to access programs and data remotely through the Internet. Moreover, the rising adoption of cloud computing among enterprises is anticipated to drive the market. Several organizations are embracing cloud computing technology for its scalability and efficiency. According to a survey by Cloud Security Alliance, as of 2024, about 98% of organizations use some form of cloud computing, up from 91% in 2020.
The application software segment dominated the market in 2023 and is anticipated to continue its dominance throughout the forecast period. The segment growth is primarily attributed to the rising digital transformation among businesses. As businesses undergo digital transformation, the demand for application software increases, as this software support various business operations. Furthermore, rising demand for industry-specific software drives the segment.
Segments Covered in the Report
By Enterprise
By Vertical
By Deployment
By Type
By Geography
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