Artificial intelligence (AI) is currently viewed as the most important and disruptive new technology for large organizations. However, the technology is still in a relatively early state in large enterprises, and largely absent from smaller ones other than technology startups. Surveys suggest that fewer than half of large organizations have meaningful AI initiatives underway, although the percentage is increasing over time. This essay titled “AI in organizations: current state and future opportunities” details current challenges and implications that might arise from AI applications, and the ways to overcome such challenges to realize the potential of this emerging technology. First, the paper provide a brief history of AI and an overview of AI typologies. We discuss current challenges, implications and future opportunities regarding AI. Finally, we summarize the special issue articles and highlight the contributions each makes.