In today's episode, I sat down with Mary Hamilton, Global Lead for Accenture's Connected Innovation Centers, to explore how the landscape of artificial intelligence is shifting.

As we mark the 25th anniversary of Accenture's Technology Vision report, this year's insights reveal a profound transition into an era of AI-powered autonomy—reshaping how enterprises operate and how people and technology work together.

Mary took us inside the key findings from the Tech Vision 2025 report, which is centered on the growing role of AI as a true partner rather than just a tool. From acting as a co-developer to becoming a brand ambassador and even powering robotics in the physical world, AI is on a fast trajectory toward becoming a foundational layer across every business function.

However, Mary made it clear that technology alone isn't enough. Without trust in the systems being built, none of this innovation will land as intended. As she shared, building confidence in AI must be both cognitive and emotional—leaders must ensure that AI systems behave in expected, transparent ways and that people feel confident in their interactions with them.

We also discussed how enterprises can harness what Accenture calls "cognitive digital brains" through multi-agent systems that enable intent-driven rather than instruction-led technology. Mary unpacked how these architectures, combined with AI platforms like GenWizard and SynOps are already transforming how companies create, operate, and innovate.

We explored how brands can differentiate themselves in an AI-first world, where intelligent systems increasingly mediate customer interactions. She explained that one of the most significant risks is that ever sounds sound the same unless companies inject their values and personality into their AI experiences.

We also touched on the rise of general-purpose robots, which have gained specialist capabilities and brought flexibility to logistics and manufacturing. Through examples with companies like KION and Schaeffler, Mary described a future where AI-enhanced robots work alongside humans in more agile, adaptive ways

Finally, we tackled the human side of adoption. Mary shared why upskilling employees, giving them time to experiment, and aligning culture with AI goals are vital for lasting impact. Measuring success in this space requires more than cost savings or productivity gains. Ethical compliance, trust-building, and workforce empowerment are also essential signals that businesses are moving in the right direction.

So, what does it take to turn AI from a buzzword into a practical driver of reinvention? How can leaders build a digital foundation ready for a future defined by autonomy and intelligence? Tune in to hear how Accenture is answering those questions—and helping the enterprise world do the same.