Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative technology within Industry 4.0, playing a pivotal role in advancing the circular economy (CE) by optimising resource efficiency and reducing waste and emissions. This study explores how AI contributes to end-of-life product management, a critical yet underexplored phase in CE. Through a multiple case study approach, 18 AI-driven projects across six sectors—health, energy management, maintenance and safety, supply chains and distribution, image processing, and design management—were analysed. The findings reveal that AI significantly influences waste reduction in sectors like health and supply chains, while its impact on emissions reduction is most pronounced in energy management and design. However, the effectiveness of AI varies by application type and sector, highlighting the need for tailored solutions. Challenges such as limited integration in high-uncertainty scenarios and the lack of standardised systems for end-of-life management persist. This research underscores AI’s potential to drive sustainable transitions but calls for further innovation, sector-specific studies, and ethical considerations to fully realise its benefits in achieving CE goals.