While we can’t answer all of those, we’ve put on our thinking caps and pulled together some tech predictions for 2026. AI is impossible to ignore, but we’ve made a conscious effort to look beyond the hype. Exploring what else might shape the tech landscape next year.

Rising Component Prices

We’ve already seen the cost of RAM begin to skyrocket, rising nearly 50 percent in the latter stages of 2025. This tech trend is expected to continue into 2026. Other components, including storage and GPUs, are also increasing in price. This is largely driven by the rapid growth of AI, which requires enormous amounts of computing power. Current supply chains are struggling to keep up.

Globally, data centre capacity is expected to triple by 2030, and all of that expansion requires vast amounts of hardware. As a result, consumers are increasingly taking a back seat while large commercial clients are prioritised. Earlier this year, Micron, one of the world’s leading memory manufacturers, confirmed it would stop producing its Crucial line of consumer RAM and SSDs. The company has instead chosen to focus on meeting demand for high-powered artificial intelligence hardware.

“The AI-driven growth in the data centre has led to a surge in demand for memory and storage. Micron has made the difficult decision to exit the Crucial consumer business in order to improve supply and support for our larger, strategic customers in faster-growing segments,” said Sumit Sadana, EVP and Chief Business Officer at Micron Technology.

What does this mean for consumers?

If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your device, waiting may not be your friend. Prices are unlikely to soften in the short term.

More Autonomous Robots

Autonomous devices are going to be one of the main tech trends of 2026. They are becoming more common, from warehouse robots and cute delivery bots to automated production lines and fully autonomous cars. While robots have often felt like a gimmick in the past, 2026 is likely to see more meaningful adoption. This is especially true in industrial and logistics environments.

As AI systems improve, autonomous robots are becoming better at learning, correcting mistakes, and adapting to complex tasks. Large warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and supply chains are expected to lean further into automation to improve efficiency and reduce labour shortages. Fully driverless vehicles will continue to expand in controlled environments, such as delivery routes, mining, and transport hubs. That said, widespread consumer adoption is still likely to be slow, with regulation, safety concerns, and public trust remaining major barriers.

2026 Tech Predictions – Improved Cybersecurity

AI has introduced new security risks, including voice cloning, video deepfakes, and more convincing phishing scams. However, it’s also becoming one of the most powerful tools on the defensive side.

AI-driven cybersecurity systems can automate threat detection, analyse vast amounts of data, and respond to attacks far faster than traditional tools. By learning normal behaviour patterns, AI can identify unusual activity and flag potential threats early.

AI won’t replace human analysts in 2026. What we do expect is banks, cybersecurity firms, and antivirus providers to roll out more AI-powered protection features. This doesn’t eliminate risk, but it does help level the playing field in what has become a constant back-and-forth between attackers and defenders.

Renewed Energy for the “Great Log Off”

This one comes with a disclaimer: personal opinions may apply.
With social feeds increasingly flooded with AI-generated content, ads, and recycled trends, 2026 could mark a shift towards more intentional tech use. Not a mass digital exodus, but a growing desire to disengage from platforms that no longer feel rewarding.

Gen Z and Millennials are increasingly aware that endless scrolling, shortened attention spans, and unrealistic online content can take a toll on mental health. While people aren’t about to delete every app overnight, we may see more users curating feeds, setting boundaries, or stepping away from certain platforms altogether in favour of real-world connections.

AI Everywhere (Whether You Like It or Not)

In 2026, avoiding AI will be nearly impossible. If you weren’t a fan of Microsoft’s Copilot rollout, brace yourself. AI is expected to be embedded into most major apps, websites, and devices by default. From drafting emails and managing calendars to shopping recommendations and customer support, the amount of effort required from users will continue to shrink.

That said, AI fatigue is real. While convenience is a major selling point, not everyone is comfortable handing over more control, data and personal information. Expect a growing tension between automation and user choice, with people becoming more selective about when AI helps and when it gets in the way.

What this means for everyday tech users

Tech in 2026 is getting more powerful, more expensive, and more complex. From rising hardware costs to AI baked into everyday devices, staying on top of it all is becoming harder for everyday users. That’s where Geeks on Wheels can help. We make technology reliable, secure, and easy to use, whether that’s through device upgrades, performance checks, security advice, or getting everything set up properly from the start. Call today to get the help you need!

Whilst some of these points are true, the benefits of consumer technology, could be beneficial in more ways than one.

New research suggests technology could help cognitive skills

Recent analysis from the University of Texas, which looked the effects of technology on more than 400,000 people over 50 showcased some exciting results. It found that users of computers, smartphones and the internet or a mix of all, performed better on cognitive tests. They also had lower rates of cognitive impairment or dementia diagnoses, compared to those who avoided technology use.

It is unclear whether the technology staves off mental decline, or whether people with better cognitive skills simply use them more, but the results are exciting nonetheless.

“For the first generation that grew up using digital tools, there’s actually a link with better cognitive functioning,” said Dr Jared Benge, a clinical neuropsychologist at UT Health Austin’s Comprehensive Memory Center. “It’s a more hopeful message than you might expect, especially with all the talk about brain rot, brain drain, and so-called digital dementia.”

At Geeks on Wheels, we were stoked to read about this study. Our mission is “To be a trusted brand that provides solutions, knowledge and confidence to everyday users of technology”. We aim to not just solve tech issues but give users the confidence they need to get the most out of their technology.

So what does this mean? Is more TikTok good for my brain?

The researchers say more work is needed to fully unpack the findings, but they suspect it’s a two-way street. Dr Jared Benge explains that people with stronger thinking skills are naturally more likely to pick up digital devices, but at the same time, using that tech can deliver real cognitive benefits.

Dr Benge says that digital tools can help people take on more complex activities and stay socially connected, both of which are linked to healthier ageing brains. They can also act as a backup system, making day-to-day life easier. Think GPS for navigation or reminders to pay bills and take medications.

So endlessly scrolling social media or binging Netflix constantly is not likely to give your brain the best workout. But, by using technology to help you complete daily tasks and adapting with technology, you just might improve your cognitive abilities.

Are you finding your tech is all getting a bit too much? Maybe the stress and hassle are outweighing the enjoyment? Then it might be time to have a Geek help you simplify. Modern technology should be easy, convenient and intuitive. Our friendly technicians can help set things up to work in the way that’s best for you. We’ll help make your tech feel simple, supportive, and stress-free.

If you’re a Chrome user, you may have noticed that uBlock Origin is no longer working. A trusted and reliable ad blocker used by many internet users in recent years. Google has recently cracked down on browser extensions, disabling those that don’t comply with Manifest V3, the company’s new browser extension framework.
This blog looks at some other options if you’ve found yourself without an ad blocker after the recent Chrome changes.

What Is An Ad blocker?

If you’re not already using an ad blocker but stumbled across this blog, it might be time to consider one. Ad blockers usually come in the form of browser extensions.
Extensions shape the way you use your internet browser of choice. They usually focus on one particular task, from spell checking to blocking ads or maybe protecting your data whilst browsing.

Where you download your browser extensions will depend on what internet browser you use. If you use Safari, you’ll want to head to the app store. Chrome users on the other hand can access the Chrome web store etc.

So an ad blocker, as the name suggests, is a browser extension designed to block ads. That’s likely part of the reason browsers aren’t overly fond of ad blockers. Afterall, most web browsers make a large portion of their revenue from advertising income.

Why would you want an ad blocker? Well the simple answer for many internet users is ads are annoying. They pop up, clutter pages and don’t always look the prettiest. The other major concern is safety. Ads aren’t always safe or legitimate. So if you are concerned about online safety, then removing the possibility of clicking on a malicious ad is a worthwhile step.

Changing Browser

If you are a fan of uBlock Origin and haven’t found an ideal uBlock Origin alternative, then changing browsers may be the only realistic solution. Some users recommend a manual install without using the Chrome Web Store. But, switching browsers might be a simpler option.

This would of course require some getting used to, along with the reinstallation of extensions on new browsers and logging into all of your accounts once again. If all of that sounds like a bit of a hassle then scroll on to check out some other options to keep ads at bay.

Ad blocker Alternatives To uBlock Origin

Decided you don’t want to switch browsers to keep using your favourite ad blocker? Well, fear not! We have a few uBlock Origin alternatives you might want to try for your ad-blocking needs!

AdBlock

With over 60 million users on Chrome, AdBlock is one of the leading Ad blockers available. The AdBlock extension will stop Pop-up style ads and limit exposure to malware by stopping malicious ads. AdBlock will also limit exposure to Facebook ads which can often be used by scammers to target victims on the popular social media app.

AdBlock has a 4.5 star rating from 290,000 reviews on the Chrome Web Store. So, it is a trusted option as a suitable ad blocker in 2025. Boasting such a large user base, it’s hard to look past.

AdGuard

AdGuard is another popular alternative to uBlock Origin and provides many of the same benefits. Perhaps even a few more. With over 15 million users and a 4.7 star rating from 64,000 reviews, it’s no wonder AdGuard is a great alternative.

Overall AdGuard is much like any other ad blocker, helping you navigate the web without annoying ads. AdGuard claims to be the fastest and lightest adblocker extension that effectively blocks all types of ads and trackers on all websites! Install it for your browser and get an ad-free and safe web experience. They also have a suite of other products including a VPN and DNS protection if you’d like to take your internet privacy and security to the next level.

AdblockPlus

Rounding out our list is AdblockPlus, another highly rated adblocker which is still compatible with Chrome’s recent MV3 updates. AdblockPlus has a 4.4 star rating from over 18,5000 reviews and a whopping 42 million users. AdblockPlus is slightly different from the other options above, in that it does allow some ads to be shown. This is achieved through their acceptable ads initiative which removes malicious, annoying and intrusive ads but allows acceptable ads in order to help websites which rely on them to survive. You can always update your settings if you’d like to block all ads.

Has your hunt for a suitable uBlockOrigin alternative come to an end? Whether you decide to switch browsers or try a new ad blocker, make sure you protect your device and your data whilst browsing. We recommend Malwarebytes browser guard, the perfect browser defence for safer surfing. Have you ever clicked on a suspicious ad? There’s a chance that malware may have been downloaded onto your device. For a thorough scan and removal of malware, book a Geek today!

Restarting your device

Leaving your devices on 24/7 can cause unnecessary wear and tear on the components of your devices. It also consumes more energy and can potentially cause overheating.

We recommend restarting your mobile phone and computer at least once a week to improve its performance. A simple restart—rather than just shutting down—helps your device run better by clearing memory, refreshing the system kernel, resetting the cache, and finishing pending updates. Shutting down, on the other hand, stores current system data so it can reload quickly, which can also reload existing issues.

Please note: Macs are the exception to this restarting vs shutting down rule. In fact, the roles are reversed. So, it’s best practice to shut down your Mac regularly, rather than restart it.

If you have a Windows device, we recommend that you disable fast startup. To do this open control panel > power options > choose what the power buttons do > change settings that are currently unavailable. Now simply untick fast startup.

Partial charging

Excessive charging can harm your computer’s battery over time. This is because devices, such as your laptop and smartphone, are powered by lithium ion batteries. Excessive heat is lithium ion’s worst enemy, and over charging produces heat!

To build good tech habits and keep your devices in top condition, we recommend avoiding overnight charging. And, if you’re wondering for example, how to charge your phone correctly, we’ve got you covered. To maintain optimal battery health, keep your device’s charge between 20% and 80%, whether it’s plugged in or running on battery. It’s a simple habit that can make a big difference in your battery’s longevity!

Updating software and operating systems

Updates don’t just bring improved features—they also come with important bug fixes and enhanced security. So, when you’re prompted to install the latest update, make sure you do it. It’s one of the more important of the good tech habits we recommended.

If you’re wondering where to even begin and how to update devices, check out our blog where we show you how to find and update your device’s operating system!

Browsing the web protected

Relying on your own common sense shouldn’t be your only protection when browsing the internet.

The internet is a prime spot for scammers because of its vastness, lack of regulation and anonymity. Even legitimate websites can become infected with malware. So, amongst the many good tech habits you should adopt in 2025, this one is a biggie!

We recommend the web extension, Malwarebytes’ Browser Guard!

Allowing airflow

Especially this time of year, it’s a good habit to consistently ensure your device’s vents aren’t obstructed, and that they are getting optimal airflow. This is because minimal airflow can cause your device to overheat, which can ultimately cause damage to your device’s lithium ion battery.

Wondering how to cool down laptop? A simple tip is to keep your devices off plush surfaces, which can block airflow. Another is to always keep them out of direct sunlight to prevent them from heating up unnecessarily!

Cleaning dust and grime build up regularly

One major cause of overheating in devices is the buildup of dust and grime. For example, a dusty PC can lead to performance issues over time and may even shorten the lifespan of critical components like the central processing unit (CPU), which is often referred to as the ‘brain’ of a computer.

We recommend using compressed air to regularly blow out dust from your PC to keep it running smoothly. Need other tips for how to clean your computer? Check out our blog on how to clean your computer and smartphone.

Backing up your data

You might feel confident that you are keeping your data safe, but there are numerous reasons, many beyond your control, that can lead to data loss. These can include human error, power failures, hardware malfunctions, ransomware, malware and more!

To prevent something happening to your data that is beyond your control, good tech habits include regularly backing up your data! If you want to look at some of the tools you have available to do this, read our blog on different computer backup options.

Using a surge protector

Standard power outlets don’t provide protection against power surges. Power surges can occur due to lightning strikes, power outages, or electrical faults—things completely out of your control. These surges send sudden spikes of electricity through your devices, potentially causing significant damage.

To protect your electronics and reduce the risk of costly repairs or replacements, consider investing in a surge protector power board or single-outlet surge protectors.

Now you’ve got some great tech habits to kickstart your 2025 goals! Remember, the more care you show your devices, the longer they’ll last—and the more money you’ll save in the long run. And if you ever need computer repairs, one of the smartest habits is to trust the professionals. That’s where we come in—book a geek with us and keep your tech in top shape!

Since starting business in 2005, Geeks on Wheels has been helping New Zealander’s both young and old with online safety. In the last 20 years, the online landscape has evolved significantly, not only in New Zealand but across the world. Now, the lives of Kiwis are more online than ever before.

Unfortunately for many, this digital age has come along at a rapid pace. Often faster than users can keep up with. With it, has come an ever-increasing torrent of digital scams. From phishing emails to cryptocurrency scams, it can be hard to keep up with a constantly evolving cybersecurity landscape.

Over 60% of New Zealanders surveyed by Netsafe encounter scams at least once a month and nearly 20% once a day. Worryingly, many Kiwis don’t know how to identify a scam, with nearly $200 Million dollars being lost to scams last year alone. Many elderly and at-risk internet users are left vulnerable if not equipped with the right safety measures and up-to-date information to aid in scam avoidance.

What are we doing to help?

Geeks on Wheels offers a wide range of tech support services, encompassing online safety and device training, with the goal of empowering users of technology. We have furthered our commitment to improving the scam awareness of Kiwi’s, especially seniors and vulnerable internet users. We’ve set out to achieve this by providing free educational seminars throughout New Zealand.

These seminars are aimed at teaching scam awareness and educating attendees on scam identification techniques.  This is achieved by arming them with the knowledge and skills to use the internet with confidence.

In the last twelve months, Geeks on Wheels has coordinated more than 20 educational seminars. Providing important advice and expert insight into online safety for a range of community groups. These have included SeniorNet, AgeConcern, Citizens Advice Bureau and numerous retirement villages, to list a few.

How is Geeks on Wheels educating Kiwis about online safety?

Our recent online safety seminars have focussed on the numerous types of scams that everyday Kiwis are most likely to encounter. These include phishing scams, sent via email or text, social media scams, and phone scams.

We discuss ways to identify these scams, how to safeguard your devices and what steps to take if you fall victim to a scam. Our technicians also put their skills to work by answering any tech-related questions and solving simple tech troubles for attendees on the spot.

We’d love to visit you and talk about online safety!

Are you part of a local group that could benefit from some helpful tips about online safety? Are you an events coordinator at an aged care facility or are you planning a tech-related event? Geeks on Wheels would love to hear from you! We have technicians in 11 locations throughout New Zealand. Check to see if we’re in your area! To talk about scheduling an online safety seminar from one of our tech experts, email marketing@geeksonwheels.co.nz We look forward to hearing from you!

Countless Kiwis shifted to working from home at some stage over the past couple of years. Some never moved back, while others kept a balance of at-home and in-office work. But how many took the time to set up their home offices with ergonomics in mind? If your set-up was a little rushed, or you didn’t prioritise ergonomics at the time, now’s your chance. Here’s a little more about why good ergonomics is important for your wellbeing, and how you can improve it.

Why good ergonomics is vital at home

 If you spend most of your day sitting at a desk, you are more prone to strains. These can come from poor posture and repetitive moments.

The hard part is that you don’t usually notice it until it’s too late. Your back might start aching after a month or two, but during the day-to-day, you don’t realise that your chair is too high or far away, or your screen too low. Problems that can arise from poor ergonomics can vary from lower back problems, to carpal tunnel syndrome in the hands, to tendonitis, or Raynaud’s disease.

Sitting comfortably and correctly may even help you feel more confident and positive in your work.

How to improve your home office ergonomics for better wellbeing

 Try to implement these practices in your at-home office:

1. Make sure your arms are supported, either on a desk or on arm rests. Otherwise, your neck and shoulders may feel the strain by the end of the day.
2. Move as close to the desk as possible. This avoids leaning over to reach your mouse and keyboard.
3. Move the monitor back to about an arm’s length to avoid eye strain.
4. Ensure your chair has lumbar support for your lower back. Invest in a lumbar cushion if a chair is out of the question.
5. Do not place your monitor in front of a bright window. This will create glare and strain your eyes. Either pull the blinds or move the screen in front of a wall.
6. Your monitor should be at eye height to keep your head straight.
7. Your feet should be placed flat on the floor. Try to avoid crossing your legs to avoid straining one side of the body. If a feet-on-floor set-up doesn’t work with your chair/table/monitor height, you can put a box or phone book under your feet.
8. Invest in an external mouse. Using the touchpad on your laptop as a mouse can increase wrist strain.
9. Get moving. Get up and move around often throughout the day. Consider making it a habit to take calls while standing up or pacing to get more movement into your working hours.

We supply a range of ergonomic technology, including screen monitors, laptops, computers, keyboards & mice, and more. If you’re interested in our current =product catalogue, call 0800424335 or email info@geeksonwheels.co.nz.

If you’re having health issues, you call a doctor. But if it’s your technology that’s having issues, you call a Geek. Ring 0800 4 A GEEK (0800 424 335) or book a Geek online today

How much time do you spend on your smartphone? More than a third of Kiwis (37%) said that the time they spend in front of a screen negatively impacts their mental health. Another survey showed that a similar figure (39%) was concerned about their partners spending too much time on their phones, to the point where it was affecting their relationship.

These days, it’s not uncommon to have an unhealthy relationship with your smartphone. But it is possible to improve. Here are our top strategies for improving your relationship with your smartphone (and perhaps with those around you, too).

Wellbeing tips: Install a screen time tracker

 It’s hard to fix a problem when you don’t know how bad the problem is. Install a screen time tracker such as Digital Wellbeing for Android or use Apple’s iOS Screen Time app. Use your phone normally for a week, then take a look at the results. You might be surprised by just how much time you spend on your phone, and which apps are the most time-consuming.

Set daily limits

Your screen time trackers do more than just track your screen time – they can also limit it.

Use the apps to set up time limits that are 75% of what you would normally use. If your screen time is still higher than you’d like, continue to cut it down to a healthier number each week. Keep in mind that cutting down your screen time a little more each week may make it easier to break the habit, rather than trying to do it all at once.

Replace your alarm clock

Many of us use our smartphones as alarm clocks, but this also means sleeping right next to them. And often, check them right before you fall asleep, then first thing in the morning. Invest in an old fashioned alarm clock so you no longer have any excuse to sleep with your phone right next to you. Either set it to charge across the room or in another room instead.

Wellbeing tips: Keep it out of sight

 Whether you’re working, reading, or eating dinner, having your phone in sight will make it more tempting to pick it up. Keep it in a bag at your feet or in a draw. You’ll hear it if it rings, but you’ll be less tempted to pick it up and start scrolling when the drive to procrastinate kicks in.

Wellbeing tips: Set up do not disturb

Your phone has a ‘Do Not Disturb’ function. This means that texts, notifications, and even calls are effectively silenced until you are ready to deal with them. Try setting it up during meal times, overnight, when you’re at work, or when you need to focus. You can allow exemptions, such as a call from your boss or kids. This can help to avoid a notification disrupting you and encouraging you to respond, even if it’s not convenient.

You can even separate your Work from Home while using your phone? Both Android and Apple have this wellbeing feature. It allows you to create a work profile that lives on a separate part of the device so that your personal things stay private and unaffected by work. That way, you can block out all the distractions and live in the moment. We’ll share how to set up and use this feature on your phone via our Facebook Page this May. Follow us so that you never miss out on handy tips!

And while we can’t help you to break your smartphone habit (aside from setting up apps and daily limits), we can help with just about anything else. If your smartphone or laptop is giving you issues, give us a call at 0800 4 A GEEK or Book a Geek online for help.