Tech trends shaping business in 2026

Evolving computing paradigms and preparing for the quantum era

Computing technology is transforming both in edge devices and mega data centres, which we all hear about as part of the AI build out. Small, connected devices are somewhat forgotten about but are increasingly powerful; we looked at one example where a disposable vape was able to run a web server.  

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Connectivity improvements, including 5G and satellite internet, are enabling new applications across industries. ONE NZ, for instance, has sent 2 million text messages via satellite since rolling out the service in late 2024. And now they are allowing any satellite-enabled app to be used too, starting with popular apps like WhatsApp.

Data centres are evolving as well, with a focus on energy efficiency and AI-specific chip designs such as Memristors, researched at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST). Meanwhile, Microsoft joined the Nuclear Energy Consortium to address the power demands of data centres supporting AI workloads.

Quantum computing has seen some progress with each step bringing us closer to this powerful but disruptive force, capable of accelerating AI and threatening traditional encryption methods. Read this guide by  Cloud Security Alliance to gain more insights.

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At our executive events, 60% of participants rated evolving computing paradigms as relevant to their business, though only 38.5% are actively preparing for quantum computing.

Robotics and autonomous systems

Robotics is advancing rapidly, especially when combined with generative AI. Machines are becoming polyfunctional, able to learn new tasks in virtual training environments.

Douglas Pharmaceuticals (NZ) deployed a warehouse robot system shaped like a giant cube, with multiple robots moving across columns to pick goods, improving both space utilisation and throughput.

Amazon reached a milestone by deploying its 1 millionth warehouse robot, coordinated through its Deep Fleet AI system, which improved fleet coordination by 10%.

In Japan, humanoid robots are supporting healthcare for the aging population, and players like Tesla with Optimus and Hyundai’s Boston Dynamics are also working on this form factor.

Consumer robotics also continue to evolve: the Roborock vacuum cleaner now has a robotic arm that can pick up socks.

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Drones are being used positively in firefighting, forest management, and logistics, inspired in part by innovations from the Ukraine war, who used AI to create false identities, pass coding assessments, and bypass US sanctions to get hired by awhere drones have changed strategy massively. Local company Syos has gained traction here and in the UK with their drones.

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Over 50% of executives at our events noted that robotics is highly relevant for industries like tourism, agriculture, and logistics.

Next-generation cyber security

AI is reshaping the cybersecurity landscape. Malicious actors can now leverage AI to conduct sophisticated attacks without advanced technical skills. A notable example involves a fake North Korean worker which used AI to create false identities, pass coding assessments, and bypass US sanctions to get hired by aUS software company.

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Defence is also AI-driven: systems can detect unusual login patterns, reverse-engineer malware, and predict potential vulnerabilities. KnowBe4, a cyber security awareness company, helped uncover the North Korean scheme, while Anthropic has developed AI tools to detect and prevent similar attacks.

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Cyber security continues to be a top priority, with 73% of executives rating it as highly relevant for their business in 2026.

Human-machine synergy and immersive experiences

Spatial computing, mixed reality, and wearable devices are redefining human-computer interaction:

• Apple Vision projects are developing mixed reality glasses, with a potential release in 2027.

• AirPods now provide hearing support, enhancing accessibility.

• Meta + Ray-Ban released display glasses with a heads-up screen and real-time subtitles.

• Wristbands that detect gestures like pinching, turning, or writing letters allow users to interact with AR interfaces.

• At the extreme end, UC Davis Health has developed a brain-computer interfaces that convert brain signals into speech for paralysed patients.

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While only 34% of executives see these technologies as immediately relevant, they are enhancing productivity, training, and accessibility in both niche and emerging use cases.

AI adoption, trust, and workforce evolution

AI adoption continues to accelerate, and user behaviour is changing. Generative AI has evolved into autonomous agents capable of independent decision-making.  

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AI is also reshaping the workforce, creating new roles such as:

• AI trainers

• Ethics and privacy officers

• Automation managers

• AI testers

• AI governance

At the same time, traditional roles are shifting. Microsoft laid off 9,000 staff due to AI-driven automation, while Meta signed a top AI researcher for a $250 million, four-year contract. McKinsey projects that 20% of the global workforce may need to change occupations by 2030. Human-centric skills such as creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence remain essential to complement AI.

Governance, ethical use, and risk mitigation are increasingly board-level priorities, with over 80% of executives rating AI and AI trust as critical for 2026.

Most exciting trends

After discussing all of the above topics, the trends that we think are the most exciting to keep an eye on in 2026 are:

• Human-machine synergy: Transforming the way people interact with technology.

• Quantum computing combined with AI: Poised to redefine industries and accelerate innovation.

Watch or listen to The Innovation Circuit EP 8 & 9: Swipe Right, Tech Trends leaders are backing for 2026 in full here.

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