10 predictions that will define 2026

Here are my ten predictions on what’s likely to happen, why it matters and how to prepare.

After a whirlwind 2025, AI is shifting from “flashy demos” to practical, measurable impact. Organisations are moving from experimentation to value, on‑device AI is maturing and regulators are finally putting stakes in the ground. I think we can expect fewer headlines about magic and more conversations about governance, uptime, energy and return on investment.

Below are my ten predictions on what’s likely to happen, why it matters and how to prepare.

1. Agentic AI becomes your digital co‑worker

2026 will be the year AI agents move from pilots to production, orchestrating multi‑step workflows (e.g. scheduling, data entry and triage) autonomously under human oversight. You can read a blog I wrote on Chat GPT’s agents here

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2. Regulation gets real

The EU AI Act enters broad application in August 2026 (with phased obligations already kicking in since 2025). In parallel, the UK MHRA’s National Commission will publish a new regulatory framework for AI in healthcare during 2026, offering clarity for NHS and social care adopters. High‑risk uses (e.g diagnostics, decision support) face tighter requirements on transparency, post‑market monitoring, and AI literacy.