As AI (artificial intelligence) becomes embedded in day-to-day working life, business priorities are shifting toward finding the right balance between AI capabilities and human creativity. Organisations are continuing to invest in workplace technology that enhances productivity, improves employee experience and supports more flexible ways of working. As these tools evolve at speed, here are the key ways AI and emerging technologies are set to shape the workplace in 2026.
1. Spatial computing at work
Spatial computing is emerging as one of the most influential workplace technologies of 2026. Instead of relying on fully immersive XR rooms, organisations are adopting lightweight spatial tools that blend digital content into the physical workspace. Devices like Apple Vision Pro, Meta Quest 3, and new enterprise spatial apps are enabling teams to visualise projects in 3D, collaborate through shared digital workspaces, and interact with information in more intuitive ways.
This shift is influencing workplace design, with companies creating camera-friendly meeting rooms, improved acoustic setups, and flexible spaces that support mixed-presence collaboration. As spatial computing becomes easier to use and more integrated with everyday software, it is set to play a major role in how teams communicate, plan, and innovate.
2. Sustainable workplace technology
Sustainability is playing a major role in workplace tech decisions in 2026, as organisations rely on AI and intelligent building systems to support Net Zero efforts and streamline operational spending.
Smart building technology, including IoT sensors, edge connectivity and automated controls, is projected to cut energy use by 30–50% over time, making it one of the most effective tools for reducing a workplace’s environmental footprint. These systems monitor energy use in real time and automatically adjust lighting, heating, cooling and water consumption based on occupancy and environmental conditions. Smart waste tracking, predictive maintenance and AI-enabled energy modelling are also becoming more common, giving businesses greater visibility and control over their environmental performance.
As ESG reporting becomes more rigorous, these technologies provide organisations with the data they need to demonstrate progress and meet regulatory expectations while creating smarter, more efficient workplaces that support long-term sustainability goals.
3. AI for workplace wellbeing
AI continues to be an important tool for supporting workplace wellbeing, helping organisations create environments that are healthier, more responsive and more personalised. With the latest CIPD report showing that employees now take an average of 9.4 sick days per year, the highest level in more than 15 years, businesses are constantly looking for smarter ways to improve health and reduce workplace strain. Wearable devices can detect poor posture or signs of physical strain, while smart building systems that use AI and IoT monitor air quality, lighting, temperature and noise levels to maintain comfortable conditions.
Other AI tools can identify behavioural patterns across teams and provide recommendations for design changes that support better collaboration, focus and wellbeing. By combining environmental data with individual feedback, advanced analytics powered by AI help organisations create workplaces that are more supportive and attuned to how people actually feel at work.
4. Office space planning
With hybrid working reshaping how offices are used, many organisations are reassessing the amount of space they truly need, and some are even downsizing as more employees work from home. Occupancy sensors are now a familiar part of the workplace, providing real-time insights into how different spaces are used. With reports indicating that space-utilisation analysis can reduce unused office space by up to 55%, cutting waste and inefficiency, it’s clear that these technologies aren’t going anywhere in 2026. With real-time data and digital simulations, companies can design offices that genuinely respond to their people, resulting in spaces that are more flexible, more sustainable and better suited to today’s hybrid, technology-enabled teams.
5. Agentic AI
Generative AI tools like ChatGPT have already become part of everyday work, helping employees draft content, analyse information and automate routine tasks. The next stage of this evolution is agentic AI, which uses advanced reasoning and iterative planning to handle complex, multi-step work with minimal human input. Instead of simply responding to prompts, these systems can gather information, create plans and carry out actions across different tools.
McKinsey’s recent “Superagency in the Workplace” research suggests that this shift has the potential to elevate human creativity and productivity to a level comparable with past industrial revolutions. Yet only a small proportion of organisations consider themselves truly AI-mature, highlighting the opportunity for early adopters. In the workplace, agentic AI can streamline operations, support decision-making and take on data-heavy tasks, freeing employees to focus on higher-value work.
As more companies invest in AI over the next five years, workplaces that integrate agentic systems into their everyday tools and office design will be better positioned to stay efficient, adaptive and prepared for the next wave of technological change.
Technology is central to both our personal and professional lives. With 90% of organisations planning to invest in AI over the next five years, adopting innovative office design and employee-focused technology will keep your business ahead of evolving trends.
Is your office due for a tech upgrade? Get in touch to find out how we can help.
