AI in India: What CIOs Should Expect in 2026

ScoutEdge, an AI-driven sports tech startup, is transforming athlete scouting in India by utilizing advanced technology to identify and promote underrated talent, thereby democratizing access to opportunities in sports. This innovation aims to bridge the gap between aspiring athletes and professional platforms.

Industry leaders have shared their technology predictions for 2026, focusing on key areas such as AI at scale, cloud autonomy, security risks, observability, governance, and operational pressures. These insights reflect the evolving landscape of technology as enterprises prepare for significant advancements and challenges ahead.

From December 8 to 12, the Daily Tech Insider highlighted a significant shift in content creation and licensing across various sectors, particularly in Hollywood and online platforms, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). This transformation marks a pivotal moment in how media is produced and consumed, reflecting a broader trend of AI integration into creative processes.

WhatsApp has introduced voicemail-style voice and video messages, emoji reactions in voice chats, and new AI image tools, enhancing user engagement on the platform. This update comes amid ongoing security concerns, including vulnerabilities that have been exploited by hackers targeting encrypted messaging apps.

AIOps is set to transform the Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI) sector in Singapore by 2026, as the region faces unique challenges and opportunities in the integration of artificial intelligence into operational processes. This shift is part of a broader trend across the Asia-Pacific region, where AI is increasingly being adopted to enhance efficiency and service delivery.

Meta has appointed Aman Jain to lead its public policy efforts in India, bringing over two decades of experience in public policy and business strategy to the role. This strategic move is aimed at enhancing Meta's engagement with Indian regulatory frameworks and stakeholders.

In 2026, India is poised to make significant advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), but experts warn that only resilient players in the sector will thrive amid increasing competition and evolving technologies. The landscape is shifting as Indian IT companies transition from embedded AI solutions to more modular products, enhancing adaptability and operational efficiency.

The Walt Disney Company has announced a substantial $1 billion investment in OpenAI, which includes a licensing agreement for over 200 characters from its extensive catalog, such as Mickey Mouse and Cinderella, to be utilized in OpenAI's Sora video generation platform. This partnership aims to enhance user engagement by allowing the creation of personalized videos featuring these iconic characters.