2026 Predictions Series: Insights from Leading Experts

As we move closer to 2026, product development feels more like an evolving journey than a fixed destination. It is a path full of fresh ideas, complex challenges, and real opportunities to create something better.

This multi-part series cuts through the noise to deliver actionable foresight. We have gathered leading experts to explore the critical shifts defining the next era of innovation. Whether you are looking to pivot your strategy or refine your roadmap, these insights will help you stay ahead of the curve.

What We Are Watching

Innovation doesn’t happen in a silo. The breakthroughs in one sector often spark revolutions in another. In this series, we dive deep into the specific dynamics of key global industries such as Consumer Electronics, Automotive, Aerospace & Defense, Semiconductors, Medical Devices & Life Sciences, AECO, and Nuclear!

Core Themes & Trends

Across every industry, we are tracking the threads that connect them all. This series provides a holistic view of the landscape, covering topics such as:

Emerging Technologies
AI and Automation
Ethical and Responsible
Cybersecurity
Regulatory & Compliance

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Predictions will appear below as they are published. Stay tuned to this space for ongoing updates and fresh expert insights as the series unfolds.

2026 Predictions for Consumer Electronics Product Development: AI, Sustainability, and the Rise of Connected Ecosystems

In part one of this series, Patrick dives into how AI is shaking up the design process, why making products more sustainable and built to last matters more than ever, and how connected ecosystems are rewiring our expectations. He also tackles big-picture topics like data privacy and the need to build stronger, more adaptable supply chains.

Keep reading as Patrick takes a closer look at where consumer electronics might be headed, from the latest tech breakthroughs to the real-life hurdles and wins shaping the industry’s next chapter.

2026 Predictions for Medical Device & Life Sciences: AI, Wearables, and Navigating Regulatory Change

With 2026 on the horizon, the medical device and life sciences industries are moving through a landscape defined by fast-paced innovation, changing regulations, and dynamic market shifts.

From the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in product development and diagnostics to the growing role of wearables and personalized medicine, the industry is embracing change while addressing critical challenges like cybersecurity, data privacy, and supply chain resilience.

In part two of this series, we’ve gathered insights from leading experts across the field, including:

Richard Matt, Principal Consultant at Aspen Medical Risk Consulting
Adam Smith, Founder/CEO at AgentAstro.ai
Mike Celentano, Owner & President at System Optimization Specialists
Dan Purvis, Chairman and Co-Founder at Velentium Medical

Plus a team of seasoned professionals from Jama Software:

Vincent Balgos, Senior Director, Solutions & Consulting
Carleda Wade, Senior Solutions Consultant
Jakob Khazanovich, Senior Solutions Consultant
Romer De Los Santos, Principal Solutions Consultant
Tom Rish, Senior Business Development Manager, Medical Device & Life Sciences

Together, they explore the opportunities and hurdles that lie ahead, offering a glimpse into the future of medical devices and life sciences.

Join us as these experts share their perspectives on the technologies, strategies, and innovations that will define the next chapter of the industry. From AI’s growing influence to the challenges of regulatory harmonization and the rise of wearables and personalized medicine, this piece highlights the trends shaping 2026 and beyond.

2026 Predictions for Aerospace & Defense: AI, Sustainability, and the Digital Transformation Frontier

As we approach 2026, the aerospace and defense (A&D) industry stands at the crossroads of innovation and transformation. With rising geopolitical tensions, increased defense spending, and technological advancements, the sector is navigating a complex landscape of opportunities and challenges.

From the integration of AI and digital twins to the push for sustainable aviation and the modernization of legacy systems, A&D organizations are embracing cutting-edge technologies to enhance efficiency, safety, and mission readiness. At the same time, they face critical hurdles, including supply chain disruptions, evolving regulatory frameworks, and the need to attract a future-ready workforce.

In part three of this year’s predictions series, we’ve gathered insights from leading industry experts from Jama Software:

Together, they explore the trends and technologies shaping the future of aerospace and defense. From AI-driven design optimization and autonomous systems to the rise of sustainable aviation fuels and the challenges of digital engineering, this piece highlights the innovations and strategies that will define 2026 and beyond.

Please note: This blog features content from writers in the UK and the US. Spelling variations (e.g., ‘defense’ vs. ‘defence’) may appear due to regional differences.

2026 Predictions for Automotive: AI, Electrification, and the Road to a Connected Future

As 2026 approaches, the automotive industry is about to enter an exciting phase marked by cutting-edge technologies, sustainability requirements, and shifting consumer expectations. The industry is navigating a changing landscape of opportunities and challenges, from the emergence of autonomous driving systems and vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication to developments in electrification and AI-driven innovation.

The integration of emerging technologies is reshaping vehicles into interconnected, software-defined systems, while sustainability goals are driving rapid advancements in battery technology, charging infrastructure, and renewable energy integration. At the same time, the industry faces critical hurdles, including cybersecurity threats, regulatory complexities, and the need for seamless collaboration across OEMs, suppliers, and technology partners.

In part four of this year’s predictions series, we’ve gathered insights from leading automotive experts:

Together, they explore the trends and technologies shaping the future of the automotive industry. From AI-driven predictive maintenance and edge computing to the challenges of electrification and the rise of subscription-based ownership models, this piece highlights the innovations and strategies that will define 2026 and beyond.

2026 Predictions for Semiconductors: AI, Chiplets, and the Path to Sustainable Innovation

As we step into 2026, the semiconductor industry stands at the crossroads of unprecedented technological advancements and complex global challenges. From the rise of AI-driven chip design and heterogeneous integration to the growing emphasis on sustainability and geopolitical shifts, the sector is navigating a transformative era.

The next wave of innovation will be defined by breakthroughs in advanced lithography, chiplet architectures, and quantum computing, while sustainability efforts will reshape manufacturing processes to address energy efficiency, water usage, and materials recycling. At the same time, the industry faces critical hurdles, including talent shortages, supply chain realignments, and the need for robust cybersecurity measures.

In part five of this year’s predictions series, we’ve gathered insights from leading semiconductor experts:

Together, they explore the trends and technologies shaping the future of semiconductors. From AI-driven automation and edge computing to the challenges of regulatory shifts and the promise of chiplet-based architectures, this piece highlights the innovations and strategies that will define 2026 and beyond.

2026 Predictions for AECO: AI, Digital Twins, and the Path to Sustainable Transformation

As we step into 2026, the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Operations (AECO) industry is poised for a transformative leap. From the integration of AI and digital twins to the adoption of robotics and advanced materials, the sector is embracing innovation to tackle its most pressing challenges: sustainability, efficiency, and collaboration in a hybrid world.

This year’s predictions explore how emerging technologies like generative design, predictive analytics, and automation are reshaping the project lifecycle. We’ll dive into the role of advanced digital tools in achieving net-zero goals, the growing importance of cybersecurity in a connected ecosystem, and the long-term trends that will define the industry for years to come.

In part six of this year’s predictions series, we bring these insights to life with perspectives from Jama Software’s own AECO experts: Joe Gould – Senior Account Executive, and Michelle Solis – Associate Solutions Architect, who share their vision for the future. From AI-driven decision-making to the rise of modular construction and lifecycle optimization, this piece highlights the innovations and strategies that will shape 2026 and beyond.

Stay tuned for the finale of this prediction series on Nuclear.

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Author
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Mario Maldari

Director of Product and Solution Marketing at Jama Software

Experienced in all aspects of the software development lifecycle with a particular focus on requirements management. Currently managing a team of pre-sales solution architects. We are passionate about understanding our client's business challenges and what it takes to solve them. We are innovative, agile, and have the pleasure of working with the best in class solution.

2026 Predictions Series: Insights from Leading Experts

2026 Predictions Series: Insights from Leading Experts