Artificial intelligence is poised for continued advancement and integration across various sectors by 2026, building upon trends observed in recent years. According to MIT Technology Review's "What's Next" series, several key areas are expected to see significant development, including reasoning models, AI for science, and the intersection of AI with national security.

Reasoning models, which enable AI to solve complex problems, have rapidly become a dominant paradigm in the field. Experts predict further refinement and broader application of these models in the coming years. The development of "generative virtual playgrounds," also known as world models, is also expected to continue. These technologies, exemplified by Google DeepMind's Genie and World Labs' Marble, generate realistic virtual environments on the fly, offering potential for training AI and simulating real-world scenarios.

The application of AI in scientific research is another area ripe for expansion. Following Google DeepMind's lead, OpenAI has established a dedicated team focused on AI for science, signaling a growing commitment to leveraging AI's capabilities to accelerate scientific discovery. This trend suggests that AI will play an increasingly crucial role in fields such as drug discovery, materials science, and climate modeling.

The relationship between AI companies and national security interests is also evolving. OpenAI, for instance, reversed its previous stance on military applications and signed a deal with defense-tech startup Anduril to assist in countering battlefield drones. This shift reflects a growing recognition of AI's potential in defense and national security, raising ethical considerations and prompting discussions about responsible AI development and deployment.

The increasing capabilities of AI raise important societal implications. As AI systems become more sophisticated, questions surrounding job displacement, algorithmic bias, and the potential misuse of AI technologies become increasingly relevant. Ensuring that AI is developed and used responsibly will require ongoing dialogue between researchers, policymakers, and the public.

Looking ahead, the field of AI is expected to remain dynamic and competitive. While predicting the future with certainty is impossible, the trends observed in recent years provide valuable insights into the likely trajectory of AI development. The continued advancement of reasoning models, the expansion of AI in scientific research, and the evolving relationship between AI and national security are all key areas to watch as AI continues to shape the world around us.