In 2026, autonomous vehicles will become a regular part of city traffic, marking a significant shift in the tech landscape. The previous year was marked by rapid technological advancements that influenced industries, markets, and geopolitical dynamics, leading to new challenges and questions about infrastructure, control, and profit distribution.
Data centers are expected to expand globally, with significant investments in India, Southeast Asia, and Australia. However, these developments come with challenges related to energy consumption and local opposition. Meanwhile, self-driving cars will become more common, with major cities across the world integrating them into everyday traffic.
The tech boom continues to concentrate wealth among a select few, with potential stock market listings of companies like SpaceX and OpenAI promising further financial gains for top executives. However, not all companies are thriving; some, like Oracle, face investor skepticism.
Artificial intelligence is gradually transforming the workplace, with varying degrees of success. While some industries have rapidly integrated AI, others are still exploring its potential benefits. Lastly, technological devices are evolving, with innovations like foldable phones and smart glasses gaining popularity, while AI continues to find its way into unexpected places, such as household appliances.
