G2, the world’s largest software marketplace, has published its Winter 2026 Reports featuring 26,562 category rankings across more than 1,300 software and services segments. The reports reveal significant momentum in AI-driven and emerging technology categories, with Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) achieving G2 Grid® eligibility for the first time since its creation in early 2025.
This quarter saw 16 categories achieve Grid® eligibility for the first time, reflecting evolving enterprise priorities around AI adoption, automation, and compliance. Notable newcomers include:
Other additions span food traceability, cannabis POS, logistics intelligence, and digital communications governance, highlighting diversification beyond traditional software segments.
Buyer interest continues surging in categories that enable AI-powered automation and trust. The top 10 fastest-growing categories demonstrate clear market preference for intelligent, scalable solutions:
"G2's Reports offer a consistent pulse on where the software market is moving and which products are rising to meet buyer expectations," said Godard Abel, CEO at G2. "This winter, we're seeing strong momentum across AI categories, including the emergence of AEO and meaningful shifts among leaders. We're also seeing those categories grow and mature rapidly, reflecting how quickly buyers are learning to trust AI. With these software insights, buyers can make more confident decisions as they navigate an increasingly dynamic landscape."
The Winter 2026 Reports underscore a broader industry transition toward AI-native tools that streamline operations, enhance decision-making, and future-proof business workflows.
About G2
G2 is the world's largest and most trusted software marketplace. More than 100 million people annually — including employees at all Fortune 500 companies — use G2 to make smarter software decisions based on authentic peer reviews. Thousands of software companies partner with G2 to build their reputation and grow their business — including Salesforce, HubSpot, Zoom, and Adobe.
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