For two days Berlin has become a melting pot for ideas of digital transformation. At TRANSFORM 2026 on March 18 and 19, companies, startups, and tech enthusiasts gathered to discuss the future of AI in particular, as well as many other digital technologies and their application in everyday work. Representing the MediaTech Hub Potsdam, our colleagues Jasper Hänel, Daria Trinz, and Erdinç Koç were on site alongside teams from the MTH Accelerator Network, including Lexi, Graphrs, Kisszu, and valid.
Amid all the robots, panel discussions, and conversations at the booth, it quickly became clear: The debate surrounding artificial intelligence has entered a new phase—moving away from the question of “whether” and toward concrete plans for implementation.
From concept to application
One key takeaway from the trade show: For many companies, integrating AI is no longer a strategic choice, but a matter of speed. Those who wait too long will fall behind.
At the same time, user expectations are changing. Simply increasing efficiency is no longer enough. What’s needed are comprehensive solutions that not only speed up processes but also deliver results. Or, to put it another way: it’s not about working faster—it’s about getting the job done.
AI as a way to lighten the load for teams
The potential of AI also became clear in the context of the skills shortage. “AI workers” could play an important role in the future by automating processes and specifically alleviating the workload on teams. For many companies, this presents an opportunity to use existing resources more efficiently and create new opportunities.
Curiosity as a driving force
What particularly impressed us was the palpable openness and curiosity—not only within the tech industry, but far beyond it. More and more people are actively engaging with the possibilities and challenges of AI. This is an encouraging trend that demonstrates just how great the interest is in helping to shape the digital future.
For us, TRANSFORM 2026 was, above all, a place for exchange and reflection—and a testament to the growing acceptance of new technologies in industry and society. We’re taking a wealth of inspiration back with us to Babelsberg—and we’re already looking forward to next year.
A big thank you to the de:hub initiative for organizing this event and providing an opportunity for discussion!
