AI marketplaces: Shopping for the next disruptive technology

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  Quantumrun Foresight
• August 18, 2022

Insight summary

Artificial intelligence (AI) marketplaces are reshaping how businesses access and use AI and machine learning (ML) technologies, offering tailored services like predictive analytics and natural language processing. These platforms face challenges like the need for standardization and skilled labor, yet they are expected to grow and evolve, incorporating technologies like blockchain and Internet of Things (IoT). Their expansion will have widespread implications, from global regulation to changes in consumer behavior and the creation of new job opportunities in various fields.

AI marketplaces context

AI marketplaces are emerging online platforms focusing on AI/ML products, such as applications, software, and services. These platforms are becoming increasingly popular among businesses seeking advanced technological solutions. Major technology companies like Google, Amazon, Microsoft, and IBM are prominent participants in this sector. These marketplaces provide a range of services, including Machine Learning-as-a-Service, predictive analytics, natural language processing, and computer vision.

One primary distinction between AI marketplaces and conventional application stores lies in their intended users. Traditional application stores primarily cater to individual consumers, offering a variety of apps for personal use. In contrast, AI marketplaces are designed for a different audience: businesses and developers who are interested in integrating AI into their operations. These entities use these marketplaces to find solutions that enhance customer service, streamline business processes, and reduce operational costs.

The pricing structures of these platforms also differ significantly. Traditional application stores generally adopt a pay-per-use model, where customers pay for each app they download. Meanwhile, AI marketplaces often operate on a subscription basis, reflecting the continuous and evolving use of artificial intelligence services. Additionally, unlike traditional app stores, these marketplaces offer the flexibility of on-the-fly feature requests, enabling clients to tailor services to their specific needs. However, these platforms face unique challenges, such as guarding against adversarial attacks, where false data is used to mislead algorithms, and protecting intellectual property rights.

Disruptive impact

The rise of AI marketplaces presents a unique set of challenges, particularly in regulation and standardization. The sensitive nature of AI technology, coupled with its versatility, creates a persistent risk of misuse. These activities include potential applications in unauthorized surveillance of employees or customers and the collection of data without consent. Furthermore, the lack of standardization across these platforms complicates the deployment of AI products. Businesses often find themselves needing to heavily customize software to integrate these solutions effectively, which can be a time-consuming and costly process.

Another significant hurdle is the demand for skilled labor. The complexity inherent in AI/ML technologies means that to leverage the full potential of the services offered, businesses need to employ experts in these fields. As such, the pace at which these marketplaces can grow may be closely tied to the availability and development of skilled workers.

Despite these challenges, the future of AI marketplaces looks promising. Industry experts anticipate a rapid expansion of these marketplaces throughout the 2020s. This growth is likely to be accompanied by consolidation in the industry, with larger, more established players acquiring smaller competitors. Additionally, these marketplaces are expected to evolve, introducing support for emerging technologies like blockchain and IoT. 

Implications of AI marketplaces

Wider implications of AI marketplace growth may include: 

• The establishment of global regulations and standards allowing AI marketplaces to operate across international borders and different platforms.


• Collaboration among big tech developers and information technology professionals to create open-source code for AI marketplaces, resulting in enhanced compatibility and fostering further technological advancements.


• An increase in cybercriminal activities targeting these platforms, as they present lucrative opportunities for significant damage and financial gain compared to individual attacks.


• The integration of decentralized platforms like blockchain, enhancing the security and anonymity of transactions and participants, bolstering trust and participation.


• A shift towards subscription-based models for testing and using AI/ML technologies, leading to wider access and democratization of advanced software tools globally.


• Enhanced employment opportunities in cybersecurity and data protection fields.


• Increased demand for professionals with interdisciplinary skills, combining expertise in AI, legal frameworks, and ethical considerations.


• Shifts in consumer behavior as more people become comfortable with AI-driven services, leading to changes in how products are marketed and consumed.


• Governments and policymakers adapting to the dynamic nature of AI marketplaces, leading to the creation of new legal frameworks and guidelines that balance innovation with public welfare and data privacy.

Questions to consider

• If you or your company purchased solutions from an AI marketplace, how would you describe the experience and service? How did it impact your company’s operations?


• How else might AI marketplaces democratize access to AI solutions?