Tag Archive for: 2026 event trends

Are Smartphones Helping or Hindering Your Event?

Smartphone being used by attendee at conference
Smartphones have become indispensable in our daily lives. They help us shop, navigate, communicate and remember important dates. At events, however, their role is more complicated. On the one hand, mobile devices can distract delegates and reduce face‑to‑face interaction. On the other, powerful event apps and mobile tools enable real‑time updates, personalised agendas and stronger networking. With new event technology trends emerging for 2026, event planners must decide whether smartphones help or hinder their objectives and how to strike the right balance.

The downside: distraction and digital fatigue

Smartphone use has exploded in recent years. A Gallup survey shows that the percentage of U.S. adults who believe they use their phones too much jumped from 39 percent in 2015 to 58 percent in 2022. Excessive screen time can harm relationships and reduce engagement; meeting participants who repeatedly check their phones may break eye contact and disengage from discussions. Research by the University at Albany found that mobile phone distractions significantly reduce learning and recall in young adults. In events, constant notifications and social media updates can cause attendees to miss key insights or sessions.

Beyond distraction, digital fatigue is growing. A 2025 study estimates that over 1.58 billion people worldwide experience some level of smartphone addictions. Smartphones can pull attendees’ attention away from live presentations and networking opportunities, diminishing the value of in‑person connections.

The upside: mobile tools that enhance events

Despite the risks, smartphones play an important role in modern events. Mobile event apps centralise schedules, ticketing and communications, giving planners and attendees a single source of truth. When an event app is used, the schedule is always up to date and accessible, reducing confusion and last‑minute questions. Real‑time push notifications help attendees navigate unexpected changes such as speaker delays or room moves. QR code check‑in speeds up entry, eliminates long queues and improves record‑keeping.

Mobile apps also empower personalised experiences. Attendees can build their own agendas, select the sessions that matter to them and receive recommendations based on interests. Networking tools inside apps allow delegates to connect with peers and schedule one‑to‑one meetings. Event organisers benefit from immediate feedback and richer data; integrated feedback forms and polling enable real‑time engagement and improvement. These tools turn events into sources of first‑party data that can inform future planning.

2026 trends: more intelligent, personalised and immersive

Event technology is evolving rapidly, and smartphones sit at the centre of many emerging trends. In 2026, mobile messaging and in‑app notifications are supplanting generic emails; SMS, rich communication services and app alerts deliver higher engagement and reduce no‑shows. AI‑powered event apps provide smart registration, AI‑generated agendas and targeted notifications. Attendees expect hyper‑personalised experiences, from tailored agendas to session recommendations based on their behaviour and preferences. Gen Z delegates, who value authenticity and bite‑sized experiences, demand intuitive mobile interfaces and gamified interactions.

At the same time, there is a growing movement toward balancing digital engagement with offline experiences. The Offline Club, a community founded in the Netherlands, creates phone‑free spaces where people can talk, read or play games. Rising numbers of meeting participants say immersive experiences and shared analog moments create more memorable events. Some event designers are reintroducing analogue interactions—such as hand‑cranked ballot balloons for audience polls—to encourage attendees to look up from their screens. The key is to keep smartphones as tools rather than destinations.

Strategies for mindful smartphone integration

To harness smartphones effectively while minimising distractions, consider these strategies:

  1. Set expectations and provide guidelines. Communicate your event’s mobile policy early. Encourage attendees to use event apps for schedules and networking but ask them to mute notifications during sessions. Outline digital etiquette in your pre‑event communications and remind delegates to focus on live speakers.
  2. Use event apps to simplify logistics. Choose a robust mobile event platform that centralises registration, agenda building, venue maps and networking tools. Look for features like push notifications, personalised agendas and QR code check‑ins. Encourage attendees to build their own schedules and offer real‑time updates through the app.
  3. Create phone‑free zones and moments. Designate specific areas or time blocks for offline interaction. For example, consider a phone‑free luncheon or workshop where attendees can connect without distractions. Encourage analog activities such as facilitated networking games, physical polls or interactive installations to foster meaningful interaction.
  4. Leverage mobile marketing and social media wisely. Smartphones offer powerful marketing channels. Encourage attendees to share photos and insights using your event hashtag; this amplifies reach and builds online buzz. However, avoid encouraging constant phone use during sessions. Provide designated times—such as breaks or networking receptions—for capturing and sharing content.
  5. Prioritise data privacy and accessibility. With increased use of mobile apps, compliance and security are critical. Ensure your app meets privacy regulations and offers accessible design options such as captions and screen reader compatibility. Communicate how attendee data will be used and offer opt‑in consent for marketing communications.

Applying these insights with AVPartners

AVPartners offers state‑of‑the‑art event technology solutions that integrate seamlessly with mobile event apps, enabling features like hybrid streaming, real‑time updates and interactive polls. Our team can also design theming, staging and styling elements that complement mobile‑driven experiences and create dedicated phone‑free zones.

For virtual or hybrid events, our live streaming services ensure remote participants receive the same high‑quality content delivered via their devices. To discuss strategies for integrating smartphones into your next event, contact us today.

Conclusion

In 2026, smartphones are neither wholly friend nor foe to event planners. They can distract delegates and contribute to digital fatigue, yet they also unlock powerful tools for scheduling, networking and personalised engagement. The key is mindful integration: use mobile apps to improve logistics, personalise journeys and collect rich data, while balancing digital interaction with offline experiences. With careful planning and the right technology partner, smartphones can enhance your events and drive stronger outcomes.

Choosing the Right Entertainment for Your Event in 2026: Five Essential Factors

lasers used for event entertainment 2026

Entertainment remains one of the most effective ways to make a business event memorable and to amplify your brand’s impact. Immersive activations and interactive moments can be powerful: 64 per cent of attendees say immersive experiences are the most important driver of event satisfaction. In 2026, choosing event entertainment means balancing emerging technology, audience expectations and sustainable practices while still aligning with your business goals. This guide breaks down five key considerations to help you select entertainment that excites your guests and supports your objectives.

1. Define clear goals and a cohesive theme

Begin by clarifying what you want the entertainment to achieve. Are you energising a sales conference, celebrating a merger or creating an intimate networking environment? Entertainment should reinforce your event’s purpose rather than distract from it. Establishing a strong theme helps you weave your messaging, visuals and activities into a cohesive experience.

A clear theme also supports culture and engagement: it makes attendees feel part of something meaningful rather than just another meeting. Event planners recommend developing your theme before selecting entertainment. When your entertainment choices align with your message, for example, tying a company’s growth story to local butterfly migrations—every element reinforces your brand. AVPartners’ Event Theming, Staging & Styling service can help you create an integrated theme and design that ties your entertainment to the overall look and feel of your venue.

Guest enter jungle theme christmas party

2. Understand your audience and format

Audience profile should guide your entertainment decisions. Ask whether you are hosting executives, employees, clients, partners or families; the more diverse the group, the more important clean content and broad appeal become. Tailor entertainment to the format of your event, awards banquets, receptions and trade shows each favour different types of acts, from stage shows and emcees to roving performers and interactive experiences.

Corporate planners advise mixing experience levels and offering multiple options for different age groups. Real‑time feedback from previous events helps you refine your selection. Remember to consider remote participants if your event is hybrid: choose entertainment that can adapt to both in‑person and virtual audiences.

Live band event entertainment at gala dinner

3. Match entertainment to goals, format and technology

Once you know your objectives and audience, choose entertainment that supports them. Categories and trends shaping 2026 include:

  • Immersive and interactive experiences: AR/VR activations let teams explore 3D models or climb virtual peaks together. Interactive zones feature art that changes as people move or puzzles that encourage collaboration. These high-tech experiences engage attendees more deeply than passive viewing.

  • AI‑powered entertainment: Artificial intelligence is transforming events. AI hosts can adjust a program’s schedule based on audience energy, and AI systems can recommend personalised experiences.

  • Wellness-focused activities: Mindfulness corners, sound baths, yoga sessions and breathwork breaks help guests recharge. Such programmes support employee wellbeing and keep attention levels high.

  • Sustainable and eco‑friendly options: Zero‑waste installations using recycled art and solar‑powered performances demonstrate your commitment to the planet.

  • Hybrid-friendly acts: Choose performers who can engage both in‑room and remote audiences. Interactive livestream activities—polls, Q&A, and virtual games—keep online participants connected. Investing in reliable streaming hardware ensures virtual attendees have a quality experience.

  • Experience-based networking: Gamified networking sessions and team missions turn introductions into collaborative challenges, helping attendees form meaningful connections.

  • Culturally inspired performances: Multicultural ensembles and inclusive storytelling celebrate diversity and enrich your event.

  • Tech-driven shows: Drone light displays and holographic performances offer wow factor and create shareable moments.

  • Personalised entertainment zones: Customisable photo and video booths give attendees the chance to capture memorable moments their way, while theme‑based DIY stations let them create unique souvenirs.

AVPartners’ Event Technology team can recommend cutting‑edge equipment and help you integrate AR/VR activations, immersive lighting and interactive displays into your programme.

4. Set a realistic budget and vet your vendors

Entertainment pricing varies widely. Determine your budget range early so agencies can recommend appropriate talent and production. When vetting acts, watch full‑length videos—highlight reels might miss pacing and audience interaction. Look for performers with corporate experience and ask about their ability to customise content for your company or event theme.

Discuss logistics in detail: staging, audiovisual needs, rehearsal times and load‑in schedules. A professional contract should outline performance length, content expectations, technical requirements and cancellation terms. Book earl, prime dates for popular acts fill months in advance.

5. Plan logistics, gather feedback and measure success

Work closely with your audiovisual team to design a stage setup that supports your entertainment. Confirm microphone types, lighting schemes and camera angles to enhance both on‑site and streaming experiences. Test all equipment and have back‑ups ready.

After the event, collect feedback from attendees and entertainment providers. Ask what resonated and what could improve. Evaluate metrics such as audience participation, social media buzz and post‑event surveys to gauge ROI. This data helps you refine future entertainment choices and ensures continuous improvement.

Aerial performer at an awards night gala dinner

Conclusion

Choosing event entertainment in 2026 involves more than hiring a band or DJ. It requires a strategic approach that aligns with your goals, resonates with your audience, leverages cutting‑edge technology and reflects your brand values. By defining clear objectives, understanding your guests, embracing emerging entertainment trends, setting an informed budget and planning logistics carefully, you’ll create unforgettable experiences that spark conversation and reinforce your message.

For expert advice and tailored solutions, explore AVPartners’ Event Technology and Event Theming, Staging & Styling services, or get in touch via our Contact page. Together we can design entertainment that captivates your audience and delivers lasting impact.

What Is a Seminar? Definition & Benefits for 2026 Events | AVPartners

Small group seminar in a hotel meeting room with interactive screen

What Is a Seminar? Definition, Benefits and 2026 Event Trends

Seminars are among the most common types of professional gatherings. Educational in nature, they bring together like‑minded people to learn about a particular subject. A seminar is a more formal event focused on training or information sharing, offered in an academic instruction‑style setting. Unlike informal conferences where opinions and thoughts are shared freely, seminars are shorter in length and structured. They remain an effective way to build brand awareness and establish thought leadership. As the events industry looks toward 2026, seminars continue to evolve, integrating the latest event technology and sustainability practices to meet attendee expectations.

What do seminars involve?

A typical seminar features one or more subject‑matter experts presenting information with the aid of visual slides, demonstrations and interactive equipment. Attendees are not expected to participate heavily; instead they listen, take notes and ask questions at the end. Seminar formats vary widely: business seminars focus on industry insights and networking; personal‑development seminars help individuals learn new skills; academic seminars often involve research presentations; and many large conferences include seminars as breakout sessions.

To support effective delivery, your audiovisual setup should include high‑quality projection or LED screens, staging, lighting, microphones and speakers. An experienced AV provider can design custom slide templates, integrate digital demonstrations and ensure presenters’ messages are conveyed clearly. AVPartners offers comprehensive event technology solutions that combine audio, vision and staging expertise to bring seminars to life.

Where are seminars held?

Most seminars take place in hotel meeting spaces, conference rooms, convention centres or academic institutions. These venues offer the flexibility to configure seating, staging and breakout spaces for different session lengths and group sizes. For clients who prefer smaller settings, seminars can also be delivered in corporate boardrooms or training rooms. AVPartners has installed professional AV in venues nationwide, including dedicated conference centre installations and training room AV installations that provide crisp visuals and pristine audio.

Why seminars still matter in 2026

The events industry is transforming as we move through 2025 and look ahead to 2026. Hybrid events have matured; planners are creating fully integrated experiences where in‑person and online participants feel equally valued. While seminars remain mostly in‑person gatherings, streaming technology and interactive tools now enable remote attendance, live polling and AI‑powered networking. Sustainability is also a top priority: digital materials are replacing printed programs, and venues are chosen for strong environmental credentials.

Other emerging trends influence how seminars are designed. Micro‑events—smaller, more frequent gatherings—allow deeper interactions and help communities stay connected. Event technology is advancing rapidly; facial‑recognition check‑ins, AI chatbots, translation services and holographic displays create seamless, accessible experiences. Wellness‑focused programming and immersive design encourage breaks, movement and mindfulness to keep attendees engaged. These trends show that seminars are not static; they are adapting to meet the needs of modern audiences.

Equipment and technology for modern seminars

Delivering a successful seminar requires more than a lectern and a projector. You need a seamless integration of audio, lighting, visuals and interactive technology. Start with high‑resolution displays or LED walls to ensure slides and videos are clear to all participants. Professional lighting enhances the presenter’s visibility and supports camera recordings or livestreams. Sound design is critical; use quality microphones and speakers to deliver clear speech and capture audience questions. For hybrid seminars, invest in streaming platforms that provide chat, polling and live captioning.

Incorporate features like digital sign‑in, personalised agendas and real‑time feedback. Many 2026 events use AI to recommend sessions and connect attendees with similar interests. Consider using sustainable technologies such as digital handouts and energy‑efficient equipment. AVPartners’ Virtual & Hybrid Event Services integrate broadcast‑grade streaming with in‑room production, ensuring remote participants enjoy the same quality as those on site.

Conclusion: Choosing the right partner

Seminars remain an important tool for building brand awareness, establishing credibility and sharing expertise. They provide structured learning environments with targeted audiences and measurable outcomes. To make your seminar a success in 2026, focus on high‑quality content, interactive technology and sustainable practices. Ensure your AV setup supports both in‑person and remote engagement. AVPartners has the creativity, technology and experience to deliver seminars that captivate audiences and align with modern event trends. To discuss your seminar needs, reach out via our contact page or explore our meeting and conference AV solutions to discover how we can support your next event.