Next year, the main technologies and innovations that will mark the path of digital transformation they have like lay the path to the next stage of AI maturity in companies. Thus, in 2026, business growth will be defined not only by advanced automation, but also by integrated and next-generation technologies, which will function as a strategic platform for said transformation.
Most AI pilots, according to MIT, have yet to scale, exposing a gap between experimentation and enterprise readiness. And Globant has highlighted in a report on technological trends for next year that this stage is part of the natural evolution towards the maturity of AI.
This technology is no longer a trend, but is becoming the engine of transformation in companies, motivating their advancement beyond known systems, as well as the adoption of structural and cultural changes. These changes signal a restart for enterprise AI, with five trends that according to Globant will define this new stage.
The first of these trends is the shift from euphoria about agentic AI to real value. This technology is leaving behind the role of passive assistant to become autonomous systems that generate ROI that can be measured.
Second among these trends is quantum communication, which is emerging as a near-term disruptor. Globant points out that all companies should start preparing for it, as it enables data exchanges, in a very secure way, through quantum encryption and quantum key distribution (QKD). By 2026, 18% of quantum algorithm revenue is expected to come from AI applications, accelerating advances in processing, optimization, and quantum-safe networking.
The third trend is related to advanced robotics and the rise of AI-powered machines. Robotics is not limited to warehouse centers, and is entering other sectors, such as healthcare, logistics and smart infrastructure. With a growing robotics market, companies are investing in systems that learn from their environment, adapt in real time and work safely alongside humans.
Another trend for 2026 in digital transformation is ambient intelligence, which eliminates friction between people and technology. Environmental systems, which are part of what is known as invisible technology, are driven by predictive AI and edge computing, and are responsible for anticipating user needs and responding contextually, redefining efficiency and experience.
Finally, in 2026 a type of security with AI as a defense will emerge. Organizations that use AI for threat detection and response achieve significant savings compared to those that do not: 1.9 million on average per security breach. However, 97% of companies have suffered security incidents related to AI due to deficiencies in access controls.
As attackers leverage AI to optimize their attacks, companies are moving toward a predictive cyber defense also powered by AIwhich leads to This technology is becoming the core of cybersecurity by 2026from identity verification to proactive threat modeling.
