
HUMAN TRUTHS IN THE ALGORITHMIC ERA
2026 MEDIA TRENDS
In times of guaranteed uncertainty, brands must focus on what remains stable over time by rooting their strategic thinking in core, invariable human behaviors. Download the 16th annual edition of dentsu’s industry-leading Media Trends report to lead with confidence in the Algorithmic Era.

HUMAN TRUTHS IN THE ALGORITHMIC ERA
2026 MEDIA TRENDS
In times of guaranteed uncertainty, brands must focus on what remains stable over time by rooting their strategic thinking in core, invariable human behaviors. Download the 16th annual edition of dentsu’s industry-leading Media Trends report to lead with confidence in the Algorithmic Era.
THE MACRO TRENDS
Progress begins with understanding what remains human. We seek ease, connection, and meaning, and the brands that honor those instincts will earn attention that lasts.

WE ARE SIMPLE UNTIL WE ARE COMPLEX
In a complex world, our brains are wired for simplicity. Yet, sometimes the most efficient experience is not the most enjoyable. So what do people’s motives for convenience mean for brands looking to maximize the search, agentic AI, and commerce opportunities in 2026?
WE ARE SIMPLE UNTIL WE ARE COMPLEX
In a complex world, our brains are wired for simplicity. Yet, sometimes the most efficient experience is not the most enjoyable. So what do people’s motives for convenience mean for brands looking to maximize the search, agentic AI, and commerce opportunities in 2026?
WE ARE SOCIAL ANIMALS
All around us, community-driven environments are thriving. Third spaces, physical or virtual, are in high demand. In 2026, brands that nurture people’s desire to connect and socialize across communities of interest, live experiences, and messaging can gain a significant competitive advantage.
WE ARE SOCIAL ANIMALS
All around us, community-driven environments are thriving. Third spaces, physical or virtual, are in high demand. In 2026, brands that nurture people’s desire to connect and socialize across communities of interest, live experiences, and messaging can gain a significant competitive advantage.
WE DON'T READ ADVERTISING
As H. L. Gossage said, “People read what interests them; and sometimes it’s an ad.” In 2026, brands can overcome advertising’s diminishing returns through better signal quality, a more sophisticated understanding of attention, and new opportunities across the entertainment spectrum.
WE DON'T READ ADVERTISING
As H. L. Gossage said, “People read what interests them; and sometimes it’s an ad.” In 2026, brands can overcome advertising’s diminishing returns through better signal quality, a more sophisticated understanding of attention, and new opportunities across the entertainment spectrum.

LINKEDIN LIVE WEBINAR
NOV 12 / 3:00PM GMT / 10:00AM EST
Join us for our LinkedIn Live, where our industry experts discuss Human Truths in the Algorithmic Era / 2026 Media Trends. We'll explore the opportunities, challenges and intricacies of nine trends expected to set the Algorithmic Era in 2026. Join us below.
DOWNLOAD THE FULL REPORT TO UNCOVER KEY TRENDS

Dentsu’s Human Truths in the Algorithmic Era | 2026 Media Trends is not just about trends, it is about transformation. The report is a must-read for marketers, strategists, and brand leaders who want to stay ahead of the curve and build meaningful connections in a world ruled by algorithms. Download this strategic guide packed with actionable insights today.
