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Key technology themes poised to shape 2026

18 December 2025

 

This package also includes:

> EVs: Middle East drives electric vehicle revolution
> BATTERIES: Batteries shape the region's energy future

The technological landscape in 2026 is poised for transformative shifts that promise to redefine industries and reshape societal norms. 

The predictions for the coming year, as outlined in the Tech Predictions 2026 report published by UK analytics firm GlobalData’s Strategic Intelligence unit, highlight several areas where technology will make significant strides, from the Internet of Things (IoT) to artificial intelligence (AI), and from robotics to the future of mobility. 

These advancements are not just incremental; they represent a paradigm shift in how technology integrates with and enhances human life.

Anticipated advances

The IoT is set to become an even more integral part of our daily lives, with the market expected to surpass $1.4tn by 2026. This growth is driven by advancements in wireless technologies, such as 5G and satellite networks, which will enhance connectivity and enable IoT devices to operate in remote locations. 

The integration of AI into IoT, known as AIoT, will further revolutionise the field by enabling automated operations and predictive maintenance. 

Security concerns remain a significant hurdle, as the fragmented security standards landscape poses risks to IoT deployments. The challenge lies in creating robust security frameworks that can protect vast networks of interconnected devices from cyber threats, ensuring that the benefits of IoT are not overshadowed by vulnerabilities.

In the realm of AI, 2026 will witness the expansion of the agentic AI ecosystem. This new phase of AI development involves AI agents capable of autonomous decision-making, which will be utilised across various sectors. 

Despite the potential of these technologies, the adoption of AI tools in enterprises will be tempered by uncertainties regarding their business value. Nonetheless, AI’s influence is undeniable, with its applications ranging from enhancing workplace productivity to transforming the gaming industry. 

The ethical implications of AI, particularly in terms of decision-making and data privacy, will continue to be a topic of debate. As AI systems become more autonomous, the need for transparent algorithms and accountability mechanisms becomes increasingly critical.

Robotics, too, is on the brink of a new era, fuelled by advancements in AI and cloud computing. These technologies will unlock new use cases for robots, particularly in service settings where they can assist humans in non-industrial environments. 

The interest in humanoid robots is also expected to grow, driven by their potential to address labour shortages and perform tasks in hazardous environments. As major tech companies seek to expand their stake in the robotics industry, we can anticipate a wave of acquisitions and mergers. 

The integration of robots into everyday life will raise questions about the future of work and the role of humans in an increasingly automated world. While robots can enhance efficiency and safety, there is a need to address the socioeconomic impacts of automation, particularly in terms of employment and skill development.

The adoption of AI tools in enterprises will be tempered by uncertainties regarding their business value

Driving change

The future of mobility is another area where significant changes are anticipated. Expected to be a pivotal year for the adoption of robotaxis, in 2026 pilot projects will transition to commercial rollouts. This shift is facilitated by the collaboration between technology developers, ride-hailing platforms and regulators, which lowers the barriers to entry. 

The electric vehicle market in North America is predicted to plateau, hindered by policy uncertainties and the expiration of key federal tax credits. 

The development of autonomous vehicles will also necessitate advancements in infrastructure, such as smart roads and traffic management systems, to ensure safety and efficiency. Moreover, the environmental impact of increased vehicle automation and electrification will be a critical consideration, as the world grapples with the challenges of climate change.

In the space economy, the market is projected to reach $453.9bn in 2026, driven by advances in communications and navigation technologies. The deployment of low Earth orbit satellite constellations will continue to enhance global connectivity, providing significant downstream capacity. 

The convergence of space and quantum technologies is also on the horizon, with quantum sensing and cryptography being integrated into space-borne systems. This integration will open new frontiers in space exploration and security, offering unprecedented opportunities for scientific discovery and commercial ventures. 

The militarisation of space and the potential for conflicts over space resources will require careful international cooperation and regulation.

Streaming platforms, meanwhile, will face a profitability crunch as the market becomes increasingly saturated. To survive, platforms will need to consolidate and focus on dual content strategies that cater to both global and local audiences. 

AI will play a crucial role in this transformation, enabling platforms to personalise content and streamline production processes. The competition for viewer attention will drive innovation in content delivery and user engagement, with immersive technologies such as virtual reality and augmented reality offering new ways to experience media. 

The ethical implications of AI-driven content curation, particularly in terms of bias and misinformation, will need to be addressed to maintain trust and integrity in digital media.

Positive outlook

As we look to 2026, it is clear that technology will continue to be a driving force in shaping the future. Advancements in IoT, AI, robotics and mobility, among others, will not only transform industries but also redefine how we interact with the world around us. 

However, these developments also bring challenges, particularly in terms of security, regulation and ethical considerations. As such, it is imperative for stakeholders to navigate these changes with a balanced and considered approach, realising the benefits while mitigating potential risks.

The journey in 2026 is not just about technological innovation; it is about harnessing these advancements to create a more connected, efficient and sustainable world. As we embrace the possibilities of the future, we must also remain vigilant about the challenges that lie ahead, ensuring that technology serves humanity and not the other way around. The path forward will require collaboration, foresight and a commitment to ethical principles, as we strive to build a future that is inclusive, equitable and resilient.

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