As the world moves into 2025, the conversation surrounding Artificial Intelligence (AI) is shifting. Following years of heightened excitement and overhyped expectations, experts predict a more pragmatic approach will define the industry.

Key themes emerging for the future of AI include the rise of agentic AI, renewed focus on trust and transparency, and the development of robust privacy standards.

Industry leaders from Designit and Apply Digital have shared their insights on how these trends will shape the evolving AI landscape. From the maturing of AI business models to the introduction of more trustworthy and privacy-conscious systems, the focus is on making AI practical, accountable, and integrated into everyday life.

Post-Hype Reality and Maturing Business Models

Niklas Mortensen, Chief Design Officer at Designit, predicts 2025 will mark the maturation of AI business models. Reflecting on the past, he noted that many companies invested heavily in AI technologies without achieving substantial returns. The coming year will require these companies, as well as consultants and AI startups, to demonstrate tangible value in an AI-driven future.

Mortensen also anticipates a shift as established platforms integrate advanced AI into their products. He warns that niche AI platforms must refine their value propositions or risk being overshadowed. Drawing a comparison to Asia’s super-apps, he predicts a rise in no-interface super-platforms in Western markets, enabling seamless integration of smarter AI systems.

The Rise of Agentic AI

Brian Browning, VP of Enterprise Solutions at Apply Digital, forecasts the potential arrival of agentic AI—autonomous, goal-oriented AI systems designed to operate without direct user intervention. Browning emphasises that the foundational technologies for such systems, including advanced algorithms and interoperable AI, already exist. However, the question remains whether tech giants or innovative startups will bring this concept to fruition.

If realised, agentic AI could transform industries by automating complex decision-making processes and offering proactive digital assistance. Browning believes 2025 could mark the beginning of widespread awareness and adoption of these systems.

Evolving AI Privacy Standards

As AI technologies continue to proliferate, Dom Sevlon, CTO of Apply Digital, highlights the growing importance of privacy. Sevlon anticipates new standards and frameworks specifically designed to address privacy concerns in AI-powered, data-driven environments. These measures will likely align with regulatory frameworks such as the EU’s AI Act and California’s AB2655, which focus on transparency and accountability.

Sevlon underscores the need for privacy-compliant AI systems in composable computing environments, ensuring personalisation and data exchange occur within secure and transparent frameworks. This focus on privacy will play a crucial role in building trust in AI technologies.

Trust and Transparency Take Centre Stage

Mortensen stresses the importance of trust in AI systems, particularly as global instability and the rapid advancement of technology continue to raise concerns about misinformation and disinformation. He believes 2025 will see companies prioritising operationalising trust through certification standards, explainability features, and regulatory compliance.

The integration of behavioural psychology into AI processes may also help strike a balance between automation and human intervention. Mortensen envisions companies adopting “pause moments” in AI workflows, enabling oversight and mitigating risks associated with algorithmic bias.

Personal AI Assistants on the Horizon

Mortensen also predicts significant advancements in personal AI assistants. While current systems like Siri and Alexa have often failed to meet expectations, he foresees glimpses of more functional and proactive personal AI tools in 2025. These assistants could manage complex tasks, such as coordinating family and work schedules, suggesting the potential for a more seamless integration of AI into daily life.

The insights from industry leaders reveal an AI sector poised for transformation in 2025. With a focus on trust, privacy, and innovation, the coming year could see AI technologies mature into practical, reliable tools that enhance efficiency while addressing key ethical concerns. As the industry evolves, the challenge will lie in balancing innovation with accountability and ensuring AI systems are accessible, transparent, and aligned with user needs.