AI-native software is emerging as a structural shift in enterprise technology, with implications that extend beyond traditional SaaS. According to a new Deloitte study, a wave of AI-native vendors could reshape how businesses build, price, and consume software—potentially giving small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) enterprise-level capabilities.
The global software market grew 11% from 2024 to 2025, rising from $3.6 trillion to $4 trillion. However, Deloitte warns that competition will intensify as AI-native challengers target core business processes and create new market segments. Traditional SaaS leaders, which currently account for more than half of total market capitalization among the top 10 providers, now face pressure to move from per-license pricing toward results-driven pricing models.
Deloitte highlights three structural shifts:
- AI as the primary interface: AI systems are expected to become the dominant interface layer across applications, allowing vendors to retain customers within integrated ecosystems.
- Rise of AI orchestration platforms: As applications evolve into networks of autonomous agents, orchestration platforms will be required to manage and monitor agent activity.
- Infrastructure cost pressure: Spending on large language models, hybrid pricing, and agentic products could compress margins in 2026 as compute demand rises.
For SMBs, this shift could be transformative. AI-first platforms may enable advanced analytics, automation, and workflow intelligence at lower cost. Increased vendor competition could also expand buyer leverage and reduce pricing barriers. Low-code and no-code tools further reduce reliance on expensive technical talent.
However, Deloitte cautions that cost advantages depend on disciplined deployment. SMBs must invest in data readiness, governance, and integration to realize measurable outcomes. As AI-native vendors proliferate, decision complexity will increase.
The broader implication is clear: AI-native software is not just an upgrade to SaaS. It signals a new operating layer that may redefine competitive advantage for businesses of all sizes.
ソース：
https://www.zdnet.com/article/ai-native-software-and-small-business/
