What technological developments will 2026 have in store?
We know schools are busy preparing for the new term, but this day is a great reminder that EdTech and school digital strategies don’t stand still. For instance, AI had a huge impact in schools in 2025, appearing in areas from virtual learning environments to AI-powered assessment tools.
As we approach 2026, prominent voices in technology suggest that this trend is set to gather pace, so let’s have a sneak peek at their predictions!
AI becomes central for education
Continuing with its 2025 uptake, AI is widely predicted to be the most influential technology for education over the coming year. Analysts at Deloitte1 have highlighted 2026 as a turning point for large-scale AI adoption, moving into the use of intelligent assistants and autonomous systems. In education, this could mean more personalised learning pathways, AI-supported tutoring, automated feedback and more efficient administrative processes.
AI will continue to support teachers, freeing up time for high-value teaching activities such as mentoring and critical discussion. Universities and colleges are already experimenting with AI to analyse learning data and identify students who may need additional support.
Digital twins, simulations and more
Another developing trend is the use of digital twins2 and advanced simulation technologies. Technology writers are suggesting that digital replicas of real-world systems will become increasingly common in 2026. For education, this opens up powerful opportunities in STEM subjects, healthcare training and vocational education, allowing learners to learn and practise in realistic virtual environments 3.
Alongside this, immersive technologies such as augmented and mixed reality are predicted to further develop into mainstream use as hardware becomes more affordable.
Connectivity
Connectivity is still something to be improved at the start of 2026. Predictions from firms such as BDO4 indicate expanding satellite-based internet and early work on future network standards, which could improve access to digital education in rural communities. For schools and colleges, this could help to narrow the digital divide.5
Your school’s tech success
For all the excitement about the possibilities of technology, in an ever data-heavy education environment, schools should be increasingly exercising strong data governance, as well as boosting digital literacy for students and staff, particularly when AI is being used.
The success of technology in schools always depends on thoughtful implementation – it’s not just about the tools! [And for more on this, NetSupport will be releasing its free School Digital Strategy Guide 2026 at Bett UK at the end of this month. Sign up here to access the guide once it has been released!]
References
- Deloitte, Tech Trends: shaping the future of technology. Available at: https://www.deloitte.com/us/en/insights/topics/technology-management/tech-trends.html (Accessed 6th Janaury 2026)
- RTInsights, Digital twins in 2026: from digital replicas to intelligent systems. Available at: https://www.rtinsights.com/digital-twins-in-2026-from-digital-replicas-to-intelligent-ai-driven-systems/ (Accessed 6th Janaury 2026)
- Technology Magazine, Top technology predictions for 2026. Available at: https://technologymagazine.com/news/top-10-predictions-for-2026 (Accessed 6th Janaury 2026)
- BDO, Technology trends to watch: predictions for 2026. Available at: https://www.bdo.co.uk/en-gb/insights/industries/technology-media-and-life-sciences/technology-trends-to-watch-tech-predictions-for-2026 (Accessed 6th Janaury 2026)
- eSchool News, Edtech and AI predictions for education. Available at: https://www.eschoolnews.com/innovative-teaching/2026/01/01/draft-2026-predictions/ (Accessed 6th Janaury 2026)
