THE NINE TRENDS DEFINING 2026

PART 01

WE ARE SIMPLE UNTIL WE ARE COMPLEX

Technology is built to remove effort, yet people find meaning in moments that aren’t perfectly smooth. The brands that balance efficiency and emotion use simplicity where it serves and friction where it inspires.

TREND 1

SEARCH EXPERIENCE OPTIMIZATION TAKES OVER

Search is no longer a destination. It’s an ecosystem of platforms, algorithms, and intent—and the brands that master it will own discovery.

TREND 2

DIGITAL DELEGATION TURNS HEADS

Agentic AI is reshaping convenience. Success depends on smarter delegation, not faster automation, and trust will separate the leaders from the rest.

TREND 3

THE FRICTION PARADOX DEFINES COMMERCE

Friction isn’t failure—it’s feeling. The most effective experiences balance ease and excitement to make shopping both simple and satisfying.

WE ARE SOCIAL ANIMALS

Connection has always defined us, even in an age of algorithms. People seek belonging through shared experiences and authentic exchanges. The brands that help communities grow and conversations flow earn trust, relevance, and a place in culture.

TREND 4

COMMUNITIES SHAPE THE NARRATIVE

Communities hold the power. Brands that listen, contribute, and create with them earn relevance that can’t be bought or borrowed.

TREND 5

SHARED MEMORIES HIT DIFFERENT

Attention fades fast, but memories last. The brands that create shared moments—live or digital—become part of the stories people tell.

TREND 6

BUSINESS MESSAGING TAKES OFF

Messaging is the new marketplace. Every chat, carousel, and reply is a chance to connect, convert, and create loyalty in real time.

WE DON'T READ ADVERTISING

Attention is the rarest resource in the media economy. People tune out noise but tune in to what entertains, informs, and moves them. The brands that create with clarity and purpose will capture attention that lasts beyond the scroll.

TREND 7

AI-GENERATED AUDIENCES UNLOCK CONSUMER INSIGHT

AI can model patterns, but it can’t replace perspective. True insight comes when machine intelligence meets human intuition.

TREND 8

ATTENTION GETS A LONGER-TERM LOOK

Short-term wins are easy to track, but lasting attention is earned. The brands that measure meaning, not moments, will stand out.

TREND 9

ENTERTAINMENT OPENS NEW BRAND AVENUES

Entertainment has become the language of attention. The brands that integrate into culture don’t just reach audiences—they become part of them.

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.