The role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in 2026

Explore how AI and ML are reshaping 2026. From smarter tools to ethical innovation, learn what is next and how to stay future-ready by developing in-demand digital skills with GBS.

It was only a few years ago that Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) were buzzwords reserved for tech insiders. Fast-forward to today, and they are transforming everyday life and work across the globe. The next few years, especially by 2026, will mark a turning point. AI and machine learning applications in the future will not only multiply but also grow more sophisticated, ethical and embedded into our daily lives. From powering recommendation engines to detecting diseases, AI and ML have become important parts of the evolving digital infrastructure. 

As these technologies mature, you can witness their impact becoming more visible, far-reaching and nuanced in real-time. Whether you are a business leader, a healthcare worker, an educator or simply a curious learner, understanding the future of AI and ML, including where they stand now, key trends and the long-term outlook, will help you stay informed, upskill and use these tools to your advantage. 

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Where do AI and ML stand in 2025?

AI refers to machines or systems that simulate human intelligence to perform tasks like learning, reasoning and decision-making. ML is a subset of AI that enables systems to learn from data and improve over time without being explicitly programmed.

As of 2024, the UK AI market had already surpassed $92 billion (£72.3 billion). On 13th January 2025, the UK Government launched the AI Opportunities Action Plan to fast-track national growth and boost living standards through AI-driven innovation. This expansion is being driven by widespread adoption across finance, healthcare, manufacturing, retail, administration and particularly in the education sector, where AI is helping personalise learning and improve access. Let us examine how this evolution is unfolding across industries and technologies:

1. AI is becoming part of everyday industries

AI and ML are no longer limited to tech companies. They are now being used across many areas, including healthcare, education, finance, retail and even creative jobs like writing and designing. By 2026, experts believe these technologies will become as essential as electricity or the internet, quietly running in the background to support how we live, learn and work.

2. Smarter AI tools are on the rise

New tools like GPT-5 and Google Gemini are changing what AI can do. These models are not only better at answering questions or writing content, but they can also think through problems, make plans and take actions on their own. This makes them useful for everything from business and education to healthcare and customer service.

3. AI is moving closer to you

In the past, most AI ran in big data centres or in the cloud. But now, more of it is running directly on our devices, like smartphones, smartwatches and even hospital machines. This is called Edge AI, and it helps things work faster and more securely, without requiring data to be sent back and forth. It is being used in everything from home security systems to real-time health monitoring.

Emerging trends in AI and ML in 2026

The future of AI will be so much more than automation. It will also be about augmentation. AI-powered tools are increasing how humans make decisions, streamlining operations and generating creative content.

1. Generative AI is going mainstream

Tools, such as ChatGPT and DALL·E have shown how AI can generate text, images and even code. In 2025, these tools are being used across industries to create marketing content, assist customer service teams and even support software developers. Generative AI is saving time, reducing costs and opening up new creative possibilities.

2. AI is transforming healthcare

Machine learning is playing a major role in medical breakthroughs. It helps detect diseases early, suggests personalised treatments and monitors patients in real time. For example, AI-assisted mammography can now detect up to 29% more breast cancers than traditional methods. By 2025, it is expected that over 30% of new drugs will be discovered using AI.

3. Personalised user experiences

AI is helping companies customise their services for individual users. From product recommendations on shopping sites to customised learning paths in online and distance education, AI is making everyday experiences more personalised, relevant and efficient.

4. AI agents are boosting productivity

Businesses are starting to use AI-powered agents, digital assistants that can analyse data, create reports and even make decisions on their own. These systems are helping teams work faster and more efficiently, often with little or no human intervention.

5. Ethical AI is becoming a priority

As AI becomes more powerful, there is a growing focus on using it responsibly. Governments and businesses are developing rules to ensure AI is fair, unbiased and transparent. In the UK and across Europe, new laws are being introduced to make sure AI systems are used ethically.

The future of AI: Projections and impact

Domain Projections and impact by 2030
AI in education AI is helping teachers save time by automating tasks like grading. It is also making learning more personalised for students. The UK government is investing in better technology and infrastructure to reduce administrative work for teachers and improve education outcomes across schools and colleges.
AI-powered public services The UK is planning to roll out more AI across public services using a Scan–Pilot–Scale approach: testing tools, running pilot programmes and then expanding them nationwide. High-performance supercomputers such as Isambard-AI and Dawn are already helping the NHS develop smarter tools for diagnostics and patient care.
AI in healthcare The UK’s national strategy highlights how AI can support quicker drug discovery and better medical imaging. Government-backed AI systems are being used to detect cancer earlier. The NHS is expected to make AI a key part of its transformation over the next few years.
Smarter and personalised services AI is also being used to improve how businesses and government services interact with people, making customer support faster and more tailored. The UK government estimates that AI could add up to £47 billion a year to the economy. Special AI Growth Zones are being set up to support this expansion.
AI at the Edge and in industry While there is less focus on farming-specific numbers, ongoing funding and innovation are helping AI support wider goals, such as improving manufacturing, boosting productivity and helping the UK meet net-zero climate targets. These advances include Edge AI, which works directly on smart devices to speed things up and reduce energy use.

How can you prepare for an AI-driven world?

The role of AI in the future goes beyond business and innovation. It impacts personal lives and career trajectories. To remain future-ready, you should:

  • Upskill in AI and ML concepts: digital technologies and computing courses offer accessible ways to upskill.
  • Develop data literacy: Understanding how data is collected, analysed and used by AI systems is essential.
  • Focus on ethical thinking: AI decisions can carry bias. Learning about ethical AI and regulations should be one of your priorities.
  • Stay curious and adaptable: AI evolves quickly. A mindset of continuous learning ensures long-term relevance.

If you are pursuing a career in technology or pivoting into a new field, consider programmes that embed AI and ML concepts into their curriculum. For example, GBS's HND in Digital Technologies (Cyber Security) offers a solid foundation in digital systems while preparing students for careers influenced by AI-driven technologies.

The future of artificial intelligence is uncertain, filled with both excitement and challenges. While AI and ML will continue to reshape industries, jobs and social systems, the real question is how people will respond to them.

By investing in ethical design, transparent algorithms and accessible education, you can ensure that AI supports human goals rather than replacing them. Now is your chance to embrace this transformation and become an active participant in shaping the future driven by these emerging technologies.

FAQs about the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)

AI and ML are already being used to tackle real-world challenges. In healthcare, they help detect diseases early and personalise treatment. In education, AI tools automate administrative work and personalise learning. Businesses use AI to improve customer service, manage supply chains and reduce costs. Even environmental issues like energy efficiency and crop monitoring are being addressed with AI-powered solutions. As these technologies evolve, they will continue to offer smarter, faster and more efficient ways to solve problems across industries. 

The future of AI and ML in 2026 is all about growth, responsibility and real-world impact. These technologies are becoming part of everyday life, supporting everything from smarter apps and personalised services to advanced healthcare and business automation. Governments and companies are also focusing on ethical AI and responsible use. We will see more intelligent tools that can think, plan and act, making AI and ML not just powerful, but also safer and more useful for people, businesses and society. 

As AI and machine learning become more powerful, issues like algorithmic bias, data misuse and lack of explainability/accountability can lead to unfair or harmful outcomes. To that end, governments and organisations are working to build ethical AI systems, ones that follow clear rules, protect user privacy and support accountability. Regulations in the UK and the European Union (EU) are already shaping safer, more responsible AI development. 

Not at all. While AI may take over repetitive or routine tasks, it will also create new opportunities, especially in areas like AI ethics, system monitoring and digital innovation. Roles that require human creativity, problem-solving, empathy and emotional intelligence will still be in demand. The key is to adapt, upskill and explore how AI can work with people, not just instead of them. 

You do not need to be a tech expert to get started. Many people begin by exploring foundational courses or choosing a structured digital technologies programme. The HND in Digital Technologies for England (Cyber Security) at GBS offers a practical, career-focused introduction to AI, ML and cybersecurity. Our course will help you develop the in-demand digital skills to build a career in today’s digitally advanced market.