Earlier in this series, we learned how AI (artificial intelligence) is set to change the IT (information technology) environment, and tech players such as IBM (IBM) are leaving no stone unturned to empower themselves in the AI space. As shown in the above chart, more than 40 companies working or related to AI technologies have been acquired so far in 2016. As leading technology players make acquisitions in the AI space, it will gain visibility and spending will be enhanced. Alphabet (GOOG) topped the acquirer list with 11 acquisitions in the AI space in 2016. Oracle, Yahoo, Intel (INTC), Apple (AAPL), and Salesforce are also competing in the acquisition of AI companies.