News and Insights

IFA 2026: when AI and smart automation develop from a “nice-to-have” to a “must-have”

September 25, 2026

Key takeaways

• IFA 2026 drew 200,000+ visitors and 2,000 exhibitors to Berlin.
• AI and smart automation have gone from a nice-to-have to a must-have.
• Winning brands paired innovation with emotional, real-world storytelling.
• Takeaway: tech and PR are both heading toward smarter, more connected experiences.

The IFA in Berlin (4-8 Sept, 2026) has once again proven itself to be the world’s leading trade show for consumer technology and home appliances. With over 200,000 visitors and around 2,000 exhibitors, the trade fair provided a comprehensive overview of current and future global innovations.

Looking at the numerous robots, machines and gadgets at the booths, it quickly became clear that AI and smart automation are no longer just nice-to-haves; they have firmly arrived in everyday life.

From robotic lawnmowers to kitchen appliances: smart helpers for all areas of life

Not only is the number of users growing, but so is the range of applications for AI tools and smart home devices designed to make everyday life more seamless, interconnected and, ultimately, easier. The devices exhibited at the IFA covered many aspects of daily life – from autonomous robotic lawnmowers and intelligent security solutions to kitchen appliances that use AI to prepare meals with minimal human effort. The smart home sector has evolved significantly and is increasingly tailored to the needs of people across various age groups, life situations and cultures.

How companies generated trust and headlines at the IFA

From a PR perspective, this year’s IFA offered various successful examples of effective product storytelling. Alongside technical innovations, emotional added value and real-world problem-solving were crucial for gaining traction in the media and on social media.

The IFA Innovation Awards was a central instrument for public relations, as well as standout campaigns such as a DJ playing music for dancing robots and an AI orchestra. Companies also staged their products through tangible everyday scenarios, such as demonstrating how automated pet-feeding systems reduce mental load for families and individuals, while easing daily worries.

Successful brand presentation at the IFA 2026 meant one thing: translating technological complexity in a way that stands out from the crowd and leaves a lasting impression on visitors.

Conclusion: Heading into the future, connected

The IFA 2026 impressively demonstrated where technology is heading. The technology was designed to ease people’s daily routines, conserve resources and make processes as intuitive as possible. Visitors to the IFA experienced firsthand that transformative tech is here and it is smarter and more connected than ever. It’s a shift we’ve also tracked at other major tech events – read our take on how brands moved beyond the AI hype cycle at CES 2026.

FAQs

What were the biggest AI and smart home trends at IFA 2026?
IFA 2026 confirmed that AI and smart automation have moved from nice-to-have features to everyday essentials. Standout categories included autonomous robotic lawnmowers, intelligent security solutions and AI-powered kitchen appliances, with the smart home sector increasingly tailored to different age groups, life situations and cultures.

How did companies use PR to stand out at IFA 2026?
The most successful brands paired technical innovation with emotional storytelling and real-world problem-solving. Standout tactics included the IFA Innovation Awards, memorable campaigns such as a DJ performing for dancing robots and demonstrations showing how products like automated pet-feeding systems ease everyday worries for families and individuals alike.

What’s the key takeaway for brands planning future product launches or trade shows?
Success at IFA 2026 came down to translating technological complexity into a story that resonates. Brands that focused on practical benefits and emotional connection, rather than technical specs alone, generated the most trust and media traction.