There’s a clear fork in the road for marketing as we head toward 2026, and it starts with how companies are embracing (or resisting) AI.
The Hurdles:
- The FTC is increasing scrutiny of AI marketing practices.
- Some brands such as Aerie are actively rejecting AI-generated content.
- AI raises critical questions about brand safety and ethics.
The Strategies:
- Apple is investing heavily in AI, hiring Lilian Rincon to boost AI product marketing.
- AI “agents” are gaining traction; Sett raised $30 million to scale its AI automation platform.
- Companies must prioritize customer relationships despite AI advancements.
My Take: AI is clearly transforming marketing, but success in 2026 will depend on balancing AI innovation with ethical considerations and genuine customer connections.
