1. Edge AI Will Become a Core Feature in Medical Devices
“Regulators cleared more than 690 AI and machine-learning medical devices by 2024, and most of these tools rely on faster, more autonomous decision systems,” says Shravan. “As this growth continues, more devices will shift their analytics onto the hardware itself. Running scans and sensor data on-device will give clinicians quicker results and stronger performance during routine care. This will support earlier intervention and reduce delays as hospitals face rising demand.”
He explains how this shapes engineering priorities. “Local processing will work harder in 2026 as devices handle more data in real time. That means greater sensitivity to power behaviour and sharper reactions to fluctuations. Even a brief dip will affect output quality. Clean, consistent power will help these systems stay accurate and reliable under heavier workloads.”
2. Robotics Will Expand Into Orthopaedics, Cardiology, and Endoscopy
“Robotics has gained strong momentum across hospitals, with the global surgical robotics market projected to rise from $11.1 billion in 2024 to $23.7 billion by 2029,” says Shravan. “That level of growth shows how fast hospitals are moving beyond traditional robotic specialities. Orthopaedics, cardiology, and endoscopy will see more adoption as clinicians look for precision, consistency, and smoother workflows in complex procedures.”
He continues, “As these systems enter new specialities and handle longer, more intricate cases, hospitals will raise their expectations around stability. Robotic platforms will depend on steady output for motors, imaging, and real-time control. Even small interruptions will slow theatres down. More hospitals will review their wider infrastructure when expanding robotic programmes, because performance and reliability will need to scale together.”
3. Remote Monitoring Will Drive the Next Wave of Home-Based Care
“Remote monitoring will accelerate sharply, supported by a portable medical devices market estimated to be around $86 billion in 2026 and set for strong growth this decade,” says Shravan. “Hospitals want continuous data instead of fragmented snapshots, and patients want care that fits into daily life. Remote tools will track heart rhythm, oxygen levels, glucose and other core metrics throughout the day, helping clinicians intervene earlier and easing pressure on in-person services.”
He adds a technical view: “This expansion will place new demands on device reliability. Sensors and home units will need stable performance over long periods to avoid data gaps that hide changes in a patient’s condition. Power behaviour will play a direct role here. High efficiency and output stability will keep these devices active and protect the stream of information clinicians rely on.”
4. Sustainability Requirements Will Shape New Medical Device Design
“Sustainability is becoming a more frequent topic in healthcare procurement and regulation,” says Shravan. “Hospitals face stricter environmental expectations and growing pressure to reduce operating costs. They will look for devices that draw less power, run efficiently for longer, and support responsible lifecycle planning.”
He adds, “Efficient and durable device design reduces energy use, limits heat output, and decreases maintenance needs. Providers looking to balance environmental goals and clinical demands will favour medical equipment built for longevity and efficiency. This shift will influence medical device development in 2026 and beyond.”
5. Digital Health Platforms Will Connect Diagnostics, Sensors and Imaging Tools
“About 70 per cent of health system leaders in a recent global survey said they will invest in technology platforms for digital tools and services in 2025,” says Shravan. “This level of digital maturity will push more providers to link their tools through unified platforms. Clinical teams will want faster access to information and a clearer, consolidated view of each patient.”
He continues, “These connected systems will depend on steady data movement. If a device resets because of unstable performance or weak supporting infrastructure, uploads will stall, and real-time visibility will drop. More hospitals will review the systems behind their digital tools because every connected device will rely on consistent uptime.”
Shravan concludes with the key message for 2026
“I believe 2026 will be a year where the medical tech sector focuses on depth rather than scale. Hospitals will expect technology that strengthens clinical decision-making and reduces friction across care pathways. The next wave of innovation will centre on systems that support collaboration, protect patient outcomes, and deliver consistent performance under real-world conditions. System designers who prioritise reliability, usability, and strong clinical value will shape the technologies that stand out in the year ahead.”
