Deloitte's TMT Predictions for 2026 spotlight 13 global trends across AI, hardware, telecom, and streaming, with AI reaching a new maturity phase and being embedded at scale across ecosystems.

AI is transforming business models, operations, and consumer expectations, and 2026 is seen as decisive due to advances in technology, geopolitical shifts, and changes in digital behavior.

The report emphasizes a shift from promising AI to practical, real-world impact in the Tech, Media & Telecom sector.

In some mobile usage scenarios, consumers may prioritize rewards or incentives over simply upgrading network bandwidth.

Generative AI-created videos on social platforms could heighten misinformation, prompting stronger calls for regulation and labeling.

Next-generation satellite internet is reshaping pricing, capacity, and regulatory environments, expanding global access and changing market dynamics.

SaaS is increasingly integrated with AI agents, reshaping budgets, customer experience, and workplace dynamics.

Public media partnerships with streaming giants are viewed as a potential model to sustain traditional TV amid the evolving landscape.

Autonomous AI agents are expected to drive the next wave of automation, potentially reaching up to $45 billion in global value by 2030 if adoption accelerates.

Advances in AI inference, agent orchestration, and AI-enabled robotics/drones are set to close the gap between AI promise and practical value, addressing labor shortages.

In telecoms, benefits, experiences, and rewards programs in developed markets may gain importance alongside network performance, while new connectivity forms redefine the sector.

Industrial robotics are projected to grow, potentially reaching about 5.5 million units in 2026.