Smartly, a leading AI-driven advertising platform, has launched its seventh annual Digital Trends Report. The report predicts that 2026 will bring a new age of predictive marketing. Artificial intelligence will change the old marketing funnel into a smarter customer journey.
It identifies three key forces driving this transformation:
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The rise of AI-driven decision-making and outcomes.
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The convergence of social media, video, and connected TV (CTV).
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The expansion of precision-first marketing through data and automation.
The report, based on feedback from over 450 global marketers, shows that many are using AI to create and improve creative assets. Most plan to boost their investment in predictive and creative intelligence tools by 2026.
Marketing campaigns span many channels and devices. Precision-first marketers use AI in their workflows. They now reach audiences across six or more platforms. This marks a significant shift in the industry: cross-channel fluency is now essential.
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“AI is fundamentally rewiring marketing, from creative ideation to performance optimization, and redefining how brands connect with consumers across social, video, and CTV,” said Brianna Gays, SVP, Marketing and Communications at Smartly. “We’re seeing a new class of precision-first marketers emerge, those who let intelligence guide where, how, and how fast they scale. They’re not just keeping pace with change, they’re shaping it.”
Key Insights from the Smartly 2026 Digital Trends Report
AI is changing engagement: 92% of marketers say AI is reshaping their connections with consumers. One in three use it for predictive modeling or AI-driven creative strategies.
Cross-channel fluency drives growth: Precision-first marketers advertise on nearly twice as many platforms. They are 22% more likely to use AI in campaign planning and creative workflows.
Predictive intelligence boosts efficiency: These marketers are 27% more likely to keep media waste below 10%. They are also 40% more likely to test campaigns with AI before launch.
Smartly found that as video use increases on social media and streaming platforms, creative intelligence is more linked to video performance. This connection offers a great opportunity for innovation in adtech, cross-platform orchestration, and CTV advertising.