In that understanding, some "AI" is just a subset of software. The parts that work and are useful can be understood as software with more of the steps automated.

But BigTech companies were having a hard time making more sales with "just software". Something new called "AI" ... but really just a slight variation of the software we already had was used to create investor excitement and hype.

My prediction is that hype will cool as little practical value over just regular software is realized. The people who have bought into the "AI" hype are likely to lose a lot of money if they stay invested.

That's my speculation.