2026 Media Trends: Human Truths in the Algorithmic Era

Now in its 16th edition, dentsu's new annual trends report, Human Truths in the Algorithmic Era | 2026 Media Trends, decodes the shifts reshaping global marketing and media investment. As AI, automation, and cultural convergence redefines how people discover, connect, and consume, dentsu identifies three universal human truths that remain constant:

1. We are simple until we are complex.

2. We are social animals.

3. We don't read advertising.

“In an age where every click and scroll is influenced by algorithms, the most powerful insights remain human,” said Will Swayne, global practice president, media and integrated solutions, dentsu. “Brands must focus on what remains stable over time by rooting their strategic thinking in core, invariable human behaviours to rigorously evaluate where to invest in the Algorithmic Era.”

Dentsu gathered five experts from across its media network for its LinkedIn Live panel to discuss the human behaviours outlined in this report and how brands can grow their human connections in a world increasingly guided by algorithms.

• Moderator: Niyi Duro-Emanuel, global digital acceleration SVP, Carat
  
• Amy Watt, global managing director, iProspect
  
• Dan Calladine, global head of media Futures, dentsu
  
• Maro Mouameletzi, senior strategy partner, Carat
  
• Aurelia Noel, head of innovation and transformation, dentsu X
  

Niyi launched the panel with a quick summary of the report. “At a time of almost guaranteed uncertainty, … marketers … need to focus on things that are actually going to be stable over time by rooting their strategic thinking on core invariable human behaviours.”

The panel discussed the need for brands to evolve their customer experience in response to changing search behaviours in today’s more complex environment. Brands that create meaningful and authentic connections will stand out. They leave the side lines and jump into their brand experience, showing up as friends and fans. They partner with creators and influencers who are passionate about what they do to attract new audiences. They dive into the entertainment and gaming industries to build deep audience connections. Above all, they prioritise quality over quantity.

​Watch the replay to learn how dentsu uses its proprietary tools, robust database, and human insights to help brands drive value and turn uncertainty into opportunity in the Algorithmic Era.

​Download the report and contact dentsu to learn how to apply human truths to your brand’s success.