Consumer Trends to Watch 2026
Explore the key trends that will shape consumer markets in 2026.
Thriving amid turbulence: Growth without compromise
From standalone to seamless: Integrating AI into everyday tech
Cross-sector collaboration as the new growth engine
About Omdia
Nicole PengResearch Vice President, Consumer
In 2026, tech firms will confront a dual-front battle: macroeconomic volatility and industry-specific disruption. The consumer sector must not merely weather supply chain shocks and tightening regulations; it must outmaneuver them. Growth will hinge on identifying shifting consumer priorities and capitalizing on emerging demand. Consumer devices must evolve beyond incremental upgrades, embracing bold technical innovation and sharper go-to-market execution. TV and video platforms must aggressively pursue ad revenue growth while recalibrating content strategies to command consumer attention. Meanwhile, gaming and music providers must break out of traditional molds, unlocking fresh revenue streams through diversification and reinvention.
Central to this transformation will be the evolution of AI. By 2026, AI will evolve from a superficial add-on to a core component of consumer technology. On-device AI will make smartphones, PCs, TVs, wearables, and home devices more intuitive, responsive, and personalized. At the same time, new AI-centric products such as smart glasses will continue to emerge and mature. In entertainment, AI will play a more central role in how TV shows, movies, games, music, and advertising are created and monetized. The challenge will be to harness AI's efficiency while preserving creative integrity and consumer trust.
Complementing these technological advances, strategic partnerships will become increasingly vital. As traditional growth avenues in consumer tech begin to plateau, companies are increasingly looking beyond their core markets to unlock new opportunities. The convergence of previously distinct ecosystems: media, commerce, and technology are is creating fresh possibilities for innovation and engagement. In entertainment, collaboration between global media companies, tech firms, and local broadcasters will expand audiences and boost ad potential, while joining forces with online shopping and smart TV platforms will create new "shoppable" media experiences. Realizing the full potential of the smart home will depend on delivering unified, seamless experiences rather than fragmented devices and apps.
