Germany's cities lead the way with AI, cashless payments, and smart energy tech
A new study reveals how Germany's major cities are embracing digital solutions for public services. The Smart City Index 2025 analysed 83 cities, each with over 100,000 residents, across five key areas. Findings show widespread adoption of technologies like AI chatbots and mobile payments in local administration. The report highlights significant progress in digital energy and heating planning. Currently, 76% of the cities have already implemented such technologies. Another 12% are in the process of adoption, while 1% remain in pilot phases. Only 7% have no plans to introduce digital tools for energy management.
Mobile payments are now common in public offices, with 84% of cities offering the option. AI chatbots also play a growing role, as 45% of cities use them to answer citizen queries at any time of day. The study covers administration, IT, energy, mobility, and education, relying on 13,529 verified data points. An interactive map of city rankings is available at www.smart-city-index.de. The full report can be downloaded for free at www.ourwebsite/Bitkom/Publications/Study-Report-Smart-City-Index-2025.
The Smart City Index 2025 shows that most of Germany's large cities are moving towards digital administration. Energy planning, AI support, and cashless payments are now standard in many areas. The data provides a clear picture of how urban centres are modernising public services.
