Learn about AI in 2026
Liza A Pierce of “A Maui Blog”
The upcoming new year causes us to pause, reflect and look ahead with hope and curiosity. As we step into 2026, conversations about technology—especially Artificial Intelligence—are everywhere. Here at Kwento-Kwentuhan in the Fil-Am Voice, let us explore the topic of AI in a simple, approachable way. Rather than approaching AI with fear or confusion, this new year offers an opportunity to understand it more clearly and thoughtfully, starting with why it matters in our everyday lives.
Artificial Intelligence, often called AI, is a term we hear almost daily now—on the news, on social media and even in casual conversations. For many people, it still feels confusing or intimidating, as if it belongs only to tech experts or big corporations. But AI is quickly becoming something much more familiar. In fact, it may help to think of AI the same way we think about electricity or the internet: a powerful technology that quietly becomes part of everyday life.
Throughout history, certain inventions changed not just one industry but nearly everything around us. These are known as “General Purpose Technologies.” They are tools that improve over time, become more affordable as more people use them and spark new ideas, businesses and ways of living.
Electricity is one of the best examples. Before it, daily life looked very different. Once electricity became widely available, it transformed homes, businesses, transportation and communication. The internet followed a similar path generations later, changing how we connect, work, shop and share information. Other examples include steam power, which fueled the Industrial Revolution, and the printing press, which made knowledge accessible to everyday people for the first time.
Artificial Intelligence is now following a similar path.
Today, AI is already working behind the scenes in ways many of us do not even notice. It helps doctors analyze medical images, assists banks in detecting fraud, supports students with personalized learning tools and helps businesses save time by automating routine tasks. Even our smartphones, navigation apps and online recommendations rely on AI in some form.
One reason AI is advancing so quickly is it continuously improves. As computers become faster and more data becomes available, AI systems learn and adapt at an incredible pace. Unlike older technologies that required long periods of human-led development, AI can refine its performance through use, making it more capable over time.
As with past General Purpose Technologies, AI is also reshaping the economy. New jobs and industries are emerging while existing roles continue to evolve. History shows us while technological change can feel uncertain at first, it often leads to increased productivity and new opportunities for those willing to learn and adapt.
What makes AI especially unique is its ability to assist in its own development. While previous technologies relied entirely on human innovation, AI can help analyze data, test ideas and improve systems faster than ever before. This means the pace of change may be quicker than what we experienced with earlier technological shifts.
Looking ahead, AI is expected to influence nearly every sector—from healthcare and education to transportation and small business operations. It has the potential to help solve complex challenges, improve efficiency and support creativity, if used thoughtfully and responsibly.
AI is not something meant to replace human connection or decision-making. Instead, it can serve as a tool—one supporting people, strengthening communities and opening doors to new possibilities. Like electricity and the internet before it, AI will shape the future. The most important thing we can do as we enter 2026 is stay informed, curious and grounded in our shared values as we move forward together.
Liza Pierce of A Maui Blog is an Interactive Media enthusiast. She started blogging in 2006 and she loves talking story online and spreading aloha around the world. She’s been living on Maui since 1994 and considers Maui her home. A wife, a mother, a friend…and so much more. She loves Jesus; Maui Sunsets Catcher; Crazy About Rainbows; End Alzheimer’s Advocate. Her life is full and exciting here on the island of Maui. Liza is currently the Digital Media Specialist with Hawai‘i Life Real Estate Brokers. She is the author of the book Maui 2021 and Beyond.