Industry Analyst Jeff Kagan Previews the 2026 NAB Show

Kagan forecasts the telecom industry's AI-driven transformation and what to expect from major players

Apr. 3, 2026 at 3:34pm

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A highly detailed, glowing 3D illustration of a futuristic data center or telecom infrastructure, with neon cyan and magenta lights illuminating the complex network of cables, servers, and other digital components, conceptually representing the technological advancements reshaping the telecom industry.The telecom industry's transformation is being driven by emerging technologies like AI and IoT, which are reshaping how companies operate and compete.Atlanta Today

As the 2026 NAB Show approaches, industry analyst and strategic advisor Jeff Kagan is raising critical questions about the future of the cable TV and telecommunications industry. Kagan predicts that artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies will drive rapid transformation, reshaping industry leadership and creating new winners and losers. He expects companies at the 2026 NAB Show to outline their strategies for competing and growing in the new AI era.

Why it matters

The telecom industry is undergoing a major transformation driven by AI and other emerging technologies, which will have far-reaching implications for investors, competitors, employees, and consumers. Understanding how industry leaders are adapting and positioning themselves for the future is crucial for anyone with a stake in the sector.

The details

Kagan says the telecom industry, including cable TV, wireless, telephone, data, internet, and IoT, is in a period of rapid transformation. This shift is being driven by the rise of AI, which is quickly reshaping how companies operate, compete, and serve customers. Alongside AI, technologies like IoT and advanced data networks are also expected to play a major role. Companies across the industry are investing heavily in AI, recruiting talent, modernizing infrastructure, and rethinking products and services to stay competitive. However, many senior executives are still working to fully understand the technology and its implications. Kagan notes that most CEOs were not trained in AI, similar to the early days of the commercial internet, and are bringing in AI experts to guide them. Over the next decade, the industry is expected to experience rapid growth, along with periods of uncertainty and disruption. Some companies will adapt to AI successfully and remain competitive, while others will struggle to keep pace or risk being left behind entirely.

  • The 2026 NAB Show will take place from April 18-22, 2026.
  • Kagan expects greater clarity from industry players on AI, IoT, and data networks at this year's show.

The players

Jeff Kagan

An Atlanta-based ICT industry analyst, strategic advisor, consultant, influencer, and keynote speaker who has provided expert analysis on wireless, telecom, 5G, 6G, AI, internet, and emerging technology trends for over 40 years.

Dick Martin

The former Executive Vice President of Public Relations at AT&T, who described Kagan as "the most widely quoted analyst in the telecommunications industry."

Xfinity

A major cable TV and telecommunications provider expected to be represented at the 2026 NAB Show.

Spectrum

A major cable TV and telecommunications provider expected to be represented at the 2026 NAB Show.

AWS

A cloud computing and AI platform provider expected to be represented at the 2026 NAB Show.

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What they’re saying

“First, step back and look at the big picture. The entire telecommunications industry, once again, is in a period of transformation, impacting cable TV, wireless, telephone, data, Internet, IoT, and more.”

— Jeff Kagan, Industry Analyst and Strategic Advisor

“AI has quickly moved onto the radar of investors, customers, and employees. It is transforming the world as we know it, and doing so at an unprecedented pace.”

— Jeff Kagan, Industry Analyst and Strategic Advisor

“Most CEOs and senior leaders were not trained in AI, just as they were not trained for the Internet revolution decades ago. That's why many today are bringing in a CAIO and AI experts to guide them through this massive and important transition.”

— Jeff Kagan, Industry Analyst and Strategic Advisor

What’s next

Kagan expects companies at the 2026 NAB Show to outline their next steps on how they plan to compete, grow, and lead in the new AI era.

The takeaway

The telecom industry is undergoing a transformative shift driven by AI and other emerging technologies, which will redefine industry leadership and create both winners and losers. Companies that successfully adapt and execute on AI-powered strategies will be well-positioned to thrive in the years ahead.