5 ripple effects that will shape the future of TV in 2026 - Digiday
This week’s Future of TV Briefing looks at the trends and developments that will shape the TV, streaming and digital video industry in 2026.
digiday.comInteractive formats are expanding with viewers shoppable TV experiences, driven by creator-led ads and personalized content. AI features and 4K/8K streaming pushing smart TV apps toward seamless multi-device experiences, while bundles and ease of use remain key to retention in 2026. New platforms aim to incorporate AI tools and immersive features, shaping a more dynamic, user-centric TV app ecosystem. These trends were seen at early industry events, attending major showcases, appeared at conferences, and driving rapid benchmarking across devices. Shoppable formats and actionable content continue redefine engagement. Smart TV apps provide bundles for retention and ease-of-use as a central feature. AI tools shape discovery and immersive experiences, accelerating a user-centric TV landscape. Multi-device compatibility remains essential for cross-device viewing and synchronization.