What are AI agents, and why will they matter in 2026

AI agents are intelligent systems that can automate tasks requiring reasoning and decision-making. In 2026, they’re expected to boost productivity across businesses and become mainstream

Will AI cause job losses in 2026

Autonomous AI may replace some repetitive and entry-level roles, leading to workforce displacement while increasing efficiency

How will wearables evolve in 2026

Smart wearables will deliver personalized health insights, early diagnostics, and daily coaching, making them essential for proactive wellness

What’s new with Apple’s AI strategy in 2026

Apple is set to release a smarter, context-aware Siri and may collaborate with Google’s Gemini AI to handle complex user tasks

What is sovereign AI, and why are countries investing in it?

Sovereign AI refers to locally developed AI systems using domestic data and regulations. Countries invest in it to reduce dependency on foreign tech and drive regional AI innovation

Tech and AI Predictions for 2026: From AI-Driven Job Freezes to the Rise of Intelligent Agents

In 2026, AI agents go mainstream, wearables become smarter, Apple revamps Siri, and sovereign AI reshapes global technology landscapes writes Santhosh Kumar

By Tech Desk | Jan 15, 2026, 19:36 IST

Illustration showing AI agents, wearable devices, and Apple’s AI Siri advancements in 2026

Join for live updates on WhatsApp

Udaipur, Jan 15, 2026: The world is stepping into a new technological chapter with the arrival of 2026. Artificial Intelligence is once again set to dominate conversations, but the coming year may also introduce several transformative shifts across the tech landscape. From the rapid expansion of AI agents to breakthroughs in wearables and Apple’s long-awaited AI push, here’s a look at what 2026 could bring.

AI Agents Go Mainstream

With AI systems becoming increasingly capable, businesses are expected to adopt agentic AI at scale. These intelligent agents can automate complex workflows, make decisions, and handle tasks that require reasoning rather than simple execution. Early reports already indicate significant productivity gains, suggesting widespread adoption in the months ahead.

AI-Driven Job Freeze Looms

Renowned AI researcher Geoffrey Hinton has warned that the rise of autonomous AI could trigger a “jobless boom” as early as 2026. As AI begins performing cognitive tasks, many entry-level and repetitive roles may be phased out. While efficiency may rise, workforce displacement is likely to become a growing concern.

Rise of Sovereign AI Infrastructure

Countries may increasingly invest in building and training their own AI systems using domestic data centres. By relying on local languages, regulations, and historical data, nations can reduce dependence on foreign technology. This could lead to government-backed AI assistants, national language models, and region-specific AI innovations.

Wearables Become Smarter and More Essential

Wearable technology is rapidly evolving beyond lifestyle tracking into a core health and fitness tool. Powered by AI, smartwatches, smart rings, and other devices are expected to deliver highly personalized health insights, daily coaching, early diagnostics, and proactive wellness guidance in 2026.

Apple’s Long-Awaited AI Leap

Apple is expected to unveil a revamped, AI-powered Siri in 2026, marking a significant shift in its AI strategy. The new Siri is likely to be more conversational, intelligent, and context-aware. Reports also suggest Apple may collaborate with Google to integrate Gemini AI for handling complex user requests, signaling a major leap forward for Apple’s ecosystem.