Tech Trends 2026: 5 Forces Shaping The Future – Globant Reports

Tech Trends 2026: 5 Forces Shaping the Future – Globant Reports

When we look ahead to 2026, the tech landscape feels less like a distant horizon and more like a series of waves already rolling in. The next decade won’t just be about adding new gadgets or pushing speed limits; it will be about how businesses weave emerging technologies into their everyday fabric. Globant’s latest report paints a clear picture of five powerful currents that will drive this shift: disciplined AI use with governance and clear ROI, the rise of AI agents, the practical migration to post‑quantum cryptography, the merging of quantum computing and AI, and the quiet spread of ambient intelligence.

1. AI With Governance, Compliance and ROI

Artificial intelligence is no longer a novelty; it’s a business imperative. The report stresses that the next chapter of AI is defined by measurable impact, not just experimentation. Companies that move beyond flashy demos to disciplined execution will see the biggest returns. That means setting up clear metrics, aligning AI projects with core business goals, and embedding governance frameworks that address privacy, fairness, and ethical use.

In India, this trend is already visible. Large banks in Mumbai are using AI to detect fraud while maintaining strict compliance with RBI guidelines. Telecom operators in Bengaluru are deploying AI to predict churn, but only after establishing audit trails that satisfy the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). These real‑world examples show that governance is not a hurdle; it’s a foundation for trust and long‑term value.

2. The Rise of AI Agents – 75% of Enterprises Experimenting

The report highlights that a striking 75% of enterprises are experimenting with AI agents. These agents act like digital assistants, capable of handling customer queries, automating repetitive tasks, or even making decisions within predefined rules. They operate around the clock and scale without the need for additional human resources.

Take the case of a leading e‑commerce firm in Delhi. Their customer support AI agent handles 60% of inquiries in the first 24 hours, freeing up human agents to tackle more complex issues. The agent’s performance is monitored through dashboards that track response time, resolution rate, and customer satisfaction. This data feeds back into the organization’s learning loop, allowing continuous improvement.

3. Post‑Quantum Cryptography Moves From Labs to Reality

As quantum computers inch closer to breaking classic encryption, the world is turning its attention to post‑quantum cryptography (PQC). The Globant report notes that PQC is shifting from research labs to real‑world deployment, redefining digital trust. Governments are already drafting PQC standards, and enterprises are starting to pilot them in secure communications.

In the Indian context, the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Calicut has begun offering a PQC certification course for cybersecurity professionals. Meanwhile, a Hyderabad‑based fintech startup has integrated PQC into its payment gateway, ensuring that customer data remains secure even if a quantum computer becomes mainstream. These steps illustrate how PQC is becoming a practical requirement rather than a theoretical concern.

4. Quantum‑AI Convergence: 18% of Quantum Algorithm Revenues from AI

The fusion of quantum computing and AI is carving out a new niche. The report predicts that by 2026, 18% of global quantum algorithm revenues will stem from AI applications. This convergence is not just about speed; it’s about unlocking new problem spaces that classical computers can’t efficiently solve.

For instance, a research team at IIT Bombay has developed a quantum algorithm that optimises drug discovery pipelines. By simulating molecular interactions at unprecedented speed, they reduce the time to identify potential drug candidates from months to weeks. The AI component interprets the quantum outputs, guiding researchers toward the most promising compounds.

5. Ambient Intelligence – Technology That Fades into the Background

Ambient intelligence describes systems that sense, learn, and respond to human presence without requiring explicit interaction. The report points out that this technology is reshaping everyday environments, from stadiums to hospitals. The goal is to make technology feel invisible yet indispensable.

In a smart hospital in Chennai, sensors embedded in walls and ceilings track patient movement, adjust lighting, and even alert staff to potential falls—all without any manual input. Similarly, a stadium in Pune uses ambient intelligence to monitor crowd density and automatically dim lights to improve energy efficiency. These deployments demonstrate how ambient intelligence can create seamless experiences while delivering tangible benefits.

Putting It All Together

The five forces outlined by Globant are interconnected threads that will weave the fabric of 2026’s tech ecosystem. Disciplined AI adoption provides a framework that supports AI agents. Those agents, in turn, become more effective when built on robust, PQC‑enabled infrastructure. Quantum‑AI convergence opens new horizons that ambient intelligence can then translate into everyday use cases.

For Indian businesses, the message is clear: start by measuring AI outcomes, embed governance from the outset, and experiment with AI agents that can scale. Keep an eye on PQC standards and consider how quantum‑AI solutions could accelerate your R&D. Finally, explore ambient intelligence to make technology a natural part of your operations.

As we step closer to 2026, the tech world will reward those who move beyond hype to build systems that deliver measurable value, secure trust, and seamlessly integrate into daily life.