What Emerging Technologies Should You Watch in 2026 for Smarter Buildings and Workspaces?

With the new year approaching, many of our clients are asking what technologies they should be watching in 2026. The interest is growing around smarter workspaces, automation, and systems that offer more control with less friction. At i.e.Smart Systems, we keep a close eye on what’s next, not to chase trends, but to help our clients make informed decisions that align with how they work and how they want to grow.

Why the Shift Toward Smarter Infrastructure Matters

Workspaces have changed quickly over the past few years, and many organizations are still catching up. Hybrid work, shared spaces, tighter security requirements, and user expectations have pushed building systems to do more. The result is a need for infrastructure that connects systems, automates tasks, and gives IT and facilities teams more visibility and flexibility.

Ignoring these shifts can limit collaboration, reduce efficiency, and make buildings harder to manage. According to AVEVA, 85% of business leaders believe infrastructure modernization is essential to supporting a connected workforce (source: https://discover.aveva.com/paid-search-aoc-infra-ops/whitepaper-rethinking-infrastructure-operations-for-a-digitally-connected-workforce-v2). That mindset will shape investment decisions in 2026, especially in offices where AV, access control, and scheduling systems need to work together seamlessly.

5 Smart Technologies to Watch in 2026

As we plan for the coming year, here are five technologies that we believe will shape smarter, more connected workplaces:

• AI-Assisted AV Systems: AV platforms are getting smarter. New systems are using AI to automate camera tracking, voice recognition, and real-time adjustments to improve meeting experiences. These features reduce the need for manual setup and create more consistent results across rooms and users.
• Mobile-First Access Control: Mobile credentials are quickly replacing physical cards and key fobs. With mobile access, users can enter secure spaces through an app or digital badge, often with additional layers like biometric or location-based verification. This approach improves flexibility and reduces the need to manage physical credentials.
• Room Scheduling with Sensor Integration: More companies are pairing digital scheduling panels with occupancy sensors to improve how space is used. Sensors can confirm whether a reserved room is actually in use, automatically release unused bookings, or adjust lighting and HVAC when someone enters. These small efficiencies add up over time.
• AV Over IP Expansion: Moving AV traffic to IP-based systems continues to grow. It allows for more scalable installations, easier remote management, and integration with broader IT systems. For multi-room or multi-site businesses, this shift makes AV easier to monitor and adjust from a central location.
• Cloud-Based System Control and Monitoring: Platforms that offer remote access, live monitoring, and user management are now becoming standard. From AV systems to badge access, cloud control allows IT and facilities teams to see what’s happening in real time and make changes without needing to be on-site.

How i.e.Smart Systems Helps You Stay Ahead

At i.e.Smart Systems, we don’t suggest new technology unless it makes sense for your space. Our role is to evaluate which tools are mature, secure, and compatible with your goals. Whether you’re preparing to refresh your AV platform, expand access control, or improve energy efficiency with smart automation, we help you plan for what’s next without sacrificing stability.

We work with clients to design and implement technology that makes their buildings easier to manage and better equipped for what’s coming. If you’re looking at 2026 as a chance to modernize your space, we’re here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

i.e.Smart Systems is a Houston, TX based technology integration partner that specializes in design and installation of audio/visual technology and structured cabling. For more than three decades, our team of in-house experts has partnered with business owners, architectural firms, general contractors, construction managers, real estate developers, and designers in the Houston market, to deliver reliable, scalable solutions that align with their unique goals.