AI, 6G and quantum technologies to redefine business competitiveness

Artificial intelligence autonomy, next-generation connectivity such as 6G, and applied quantum technologies are set to emerge as the key forces shaping global enterprise competitiveness in 2026, according to HCLSoftware’s latest Tech Trends report. The findings point to a decisive shift from digital experimentation to systems capable of independent decision-making and execution.

The report describes 2026 as a crossover year in which AI moves beyond prediction and assistance to autonomous action. Around 81 per cent of enterprises have already launched live or pilot initiatives using autonomous AI agents. Over the next decade, organisations are expected to increasingly delegate complex tasks such as supply-chain negotiations and real-time risk management to intelligent systems.

HCLSoftware noted that AI is no longer confined to analysing data or automating isolated processes. Instead, it is evolving into systems that can reason, learn, and act with minimal human oversight. Alongside this practical enterprise focus, discussions around Artificial General Intelligence continue to influence long-term strategic planning.

Advanced connectivity is identified as another major differentiator. Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites are already reshaping operations for nearly 70 per cent of organisations, while more than 90 per cent plan to scale their use within two years. At the same time, 6G is entering an early discovery phase, with strong intent and pilot activity, particularly in sectors such as IT, telecom, and government that rely on distributed and high-risk operations.

The study also signals the approaching “dawn of applied quantum advantage.” Enterprises are increasingly adopting Quantum-as-a-Service models to tackle complex optimisation, cryptography, and modelling challenges. Quantum sensing is leading adoption, already operational in about one-third of organisations across areas like energy, healthcare, environmental monitoring, and navigation.

Other trends gaining momentum include cognitive robotics, immersive spatial computing, and chiplet-based hardware designs. The report also highlights the rise of Service-as-Software, where services can self-monitor and self-remediate, reducing manual intervention.

HCLSoftware Chief Product Officer Kalyan Kumar said enterprises must rethink digital transformation by viewing AI not as an end goal, but as a means to redesign organisations around intelligent, responsible, and scalable systems.