MIT Technology Review Narrated What’s next for AI in 2026
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Jan 14, 2026 Explore the future of AI with bold predictions for 2026. Discover how Chinese open models are influencing Western tech. Delve into the regulatory battles brewing in the U.S. and what they mean for innovation. Learn how chatbots are revolutionizing shopping experiences and aiding scientific discovery through new algorithms. Finally, brace for the messy legal struggles ahead, including a notable trial involving OpenAI.
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Chinese Open Models Gain Global Traction
- Chinese open-source models have become a practical alternative to Western closed models for builders worldwide.
- Expect more Silicon Valley products in 2026 to quietly run on Chinese open models due to ease of customization and access.
Regulatory Tug-Of-War Intensifies
- The US will see intensified federal-versus-state battles over AI regulation in 2026 following a presidential executive order.
- Expect legal fights, political lobbying, and uneven state responses shaping the regulatory landscape next year.
Chatbots Move Into Shopping
- Chatbots are already moving from search to direct commerce by recommending and even buying products for users.
- Big firms and retailers will deepen integrations, making agentic shopping a mainstream revenue driver in 2026.