Reliability and Support in Focus as Tech Grows
Assurant released its 2026 Global Connected Consumer Trends Report, showing that as connected technology becomes vital, consumers demand more reliability, support, and transparency. The global study surveyed over 11,000 consumers, revealing that 80% believe connected technology enhances life, marking a 19-point rise since 2021. According to the report, consumers now expect technology to operate like essential infrastructure.
Biju Nair, EVP and President of Global Connected Living at Assurant, remarked, “As technology becomes more powerful, it is also becoming more essential – and less forgiving when it fails.”
Key Global Findings
The report identifies several trends, including viewing technology as critical infrastructure, with smartphones and connected devices acting as gateways to essential services. AI drives both excitement and complexity in consumer experiences. Protection expectations have evolved, with 85% of consumers indicating that customizable protection plans increase their likelihood to purchase devices. The demand for consistent technology performance, supported end-to-end, is rising.
The report also provides regional insights, showing varied but consistent global expectations. In the United States, a market of optimistic digital adopters, 75% of consumers say connected technology improves their lives, while scepticism about AI persists due to privacy concerns. Meanwhile, in the Asia-Pacific region, there is high optimism and rapid adoption of technology. Consumers in this region demand simplicity and support as complexity increases. Europe exhibits a more cautious and trust-driven approach, prioritising transparency, privacy, and predictable costs. In Latin America, optimism about connected technology is among the highest worldwide. Consumers are enthusiastic about the improvements it brings to their lives. However, they also emphasise the need for reliability and cost control.
Nair added, “Across all markets, the message is clear: innovation succeeds when confidence is built in.” The report underscores Assurant’s role in facilitating the adaptation to a connected, AI-enabled world.
Assurant, Inc., a global company, partners with the world’s leading brands to safeguard and service connected devices, homes, automobiles, and commercial equipment. This partnership highlights the company’s commitment to redefining protection boundaries.
Last updated: 10 June 2026, 12:15 pm
