Countdown to ISE 2026: A First Look at the Show

The countdown to ISE 2026 has begun! With an innovative theme and new partnerships, the world-renowned annual tech show is expanding to showcase even more.
Countdown to ISE 2026: A First Look at the Show
Like

Share this post

Choose a social network to share with.

This is a representation of how your post may appear on social media. The actual post will vary between social networks

On February 3-6, Integrated Systems Europe will return to the Fira de Barcelona Gran Via. Let’s gear up for the show together! In this series, we’ll cover several topics leading up to ISE 2026, from information on education sessions to exhibitors. 


Registration is now open for Integrated Systems Europe 2026! With an innovative theme and new partnerships, the show is expanding to showcase even more.

“ISE 2026 will open new horizons, ignite fresh ambition, and bring together the global AV and systems integration community for an unforgettable celebration of innovation—where ideas take form and the future begins to unfold,” said Mike Blackman, Managing Director at Integrated Systems Events, in a Commercial Integrator article.

Let’s take a peek at what you can expect to find at ISE 2026.

This Year’s Theme

The theme this year is, “Push Beyond the Ordinary,” which encourages attendees to break free from conventional thinking and embrace new opportunities.

 “With our ‘Push Beyond’ ethos for 2026, we are inviting everyone to join us in Barcelona to shape the next chapter of AV and systems integration, together,” said Blackman in a Retail Focus article.

This theme also mirrors ISE’s drive for progress. With roughly four months to go until ISE 2026 arrives, more than 1,400 exhibitors are already confirmed, including 184 first-time exhibitors. The show has expanded by about 5% from 2025.

AI in the Spotlight 

Sol Rashidi, former Amazon executive and the world’s first chief AI officer, will headline ISE 2026, emphasizing just how central AI has become to AV’s future. Her keynote will take place on February 4, centered around the topic of AI’s role in business transformation.

With over 25 years of experience and 10 patents, Rashidi is recognized as a Top 100 Thought Leader in AI. She served as the first ever Chief Data and AI Officer at Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines in 2016 and helped launch IBM Watson, the world's first commercial AI application, in 2011. Considered an AI visionary, her accomplishments have put her at the forefront of several groundbreaking developments.

Her unique career experiences make her one not to miss for anyone hoping to advance and keep motivated in the face of breakneck advancements and disruptions. Watch one of her TEDx talks below.

Hall Zero Update

Hall Zero at the Fira de Barcelona is an ambitious project, set to increase the venue’s floor space by about 25% with its opening. The Fira de Barcelona currently has a total area of 240,000 sq meters, which will rise to 300,000 sq meters with the introduction of this new hall.

However, to meet the highest safety standards, the hall’s completion date has been rescheduled. Instead of opening in 2026, it’s now expected to open in 2028. The delay will affect several trade shows, including ISE. But despite the hall’s opening being delayed, every corner of the current Fira will still be optimized.

Looking ahead, Hall Zero is set to redefine expectations. We continue to await its opening with anticipation!

Introducing Spark

Making its debut at ISE 2026, Spark is a unique, cross-vertical gathering that will unite trailblazers from a full spectrum of industries. The event will be held in Hall 8.1.

Visitors can expect a central stage and creative showcases, focused on broadcast, media, entertainment, and esports professionals.

From 2027 onward, Spark will likely branch out into its own venue in Barcelona, running alongside ISE but with its own dedicated identity. The initiative’s long-term aim is to create a full-scale platform for creative industries while strengthening their connection to the AV sector.

Register Now

ISE 2026 is set to defy expectations, offering new initiatives and fresh perspectives. Plus, there are a lot more announcements to come! 

Register now or visit the ISE website for more information.

Please sign in or register for FREE

If you are a registered user on AVIXA Xchange, please sign in