AI is set to play a huge role in the IT industry across the board, providing a number of advances for all kinds of businesses, Oracle CEO Mark Hurd has claimed. Hurd took to the stage, albeit via video-link, at the company's Oracle Open World event in London today to share some of his predictions for the coming years ahead. Top of the agenda was the role of artificial intelligence technology in the IT industry, particularly regarding cloud, with Hurd stating his view that all cloud apps would include AI by 2025. Doing so will allow cloud AI apps to differentiate themselves from legacy applications, he said, with tools such as chatbots and voice-intuitive interfaces allowing businesses to build much closer and personalised relationships with their customers. "All industries are going to find way to connect to their customers in innovative new ways," he stated, noting how automation could power new use cases such as retailers creating personalized experiences for individual shoppers, or hotels running 24/7 without needing people manning the front desk.

ERP is getting smarter, according to Oracle CEO Mark Hurd. With new innovations coming to finance seemingly faster every day, not keeping up is the same as falling behind. Technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are bringing new capabilities to the finance space, decreasing time spent on routine tasks and lowering TCO. So how will the future of ERP systems integrate these new features? For many organizations, staying up to date on the latest technology is the biggest challenge facing them today.

The thought, Mark Hurd says, is that the buzz around AI will push stock prices higher. "Hell yeah I think it's a reality" that AI can change the way we live and work, Hurd tells CNBC. The CEO also commented on GE, in the midst of a disappointing two-day run for the stock. The thought, Mark Hurd says, is that the buzz around AI will push stock prices higher. "Hell yeah I think it's a reality" that AI can change the way we live and work, Hurd tells CNBC.