Content marketing in 2026 will be driven by AI-powered personalization, intent-based distribution, and search experiences optimized for AI agents and answer engines. Brands will focus on human-centric storytelling, authenticity, and value-driven content to build trust amid automation. Data, creativity, and ethical AI use will together define successful content strategies.

Content Marketing Institute contributor Stephanie Stahl has published an article featuring 42 expert’s opinion on the most important content marketing trends for 2026.

She says, “If you thought 2026 might be the year marketing trends would include something other than AI, you’re right. And wrong. 

Yes, everyone’s still talking about AI. And almost everyone’s using it (whether they admit it or not). But many experts see the expectations and applications of AI changing. 

AI won’t save you from a lack of strategy or a weak understanding of content and marketing fundamentals next year. It (probably) won’t replace you or your team. It might help you do work you couldn’t do before or handle some of the drudgery of your role. 

Let’s get into the details of the AI and other trends marketing experts and industry thought leaders (including Content Marketing World speakers, Content Marketing Award winners, and other friends of the Content Marketing Institute) expect will shape your work in 2026.

AI evolution moves to integration and optimization

As AI shifts from being the thing everyone plays with to a component in the marketing infrastructure, plugging into AI’s power while driving human connection will be key.”

42 Experts Name the Most Important Content Marketing Trends for 2026

Content Marketing Institute