Transforming Security: Agentic AI, Digital Twins, and AR Wearables

As we approach 2026, the security industry is witnessing a significant transformation driven by technological advancements that have moved from theoretical concepts into practical applications. Key innovations such as Agentic AI, Digital Twins, and Augmented Reality (AR) wearables are now integral to the daily operations of security systems, particularly in India, where national initiatives like the Smart Cities Mission and the Digital India initiative are accelerating their implementation.

Agentic AI: From Concept to Action

The emergence of Agentic AI has marked a pivotal shift in security operations. Initially recognized for its potential in code generation, this technology is now being applied to orchestrate workflows across security systems. The transition from theoretical demonstrations to operational agents is evident. These agents are capable of processing video feeds, correlating access logs, and initiating responses without human intervention.

According to the Ministry of Electronics & IT, the AI for Viksit Bharat study indicates that financial services sectors will significantly benefit from these advancements. The study highlights that AI-driven technologies are helping small and medium-sized businesses scale effectively while optimizing operations. Practical applications are already in use, such as autonomous investigation agents that gather evidence and propose immediate actions for human approval. This capability enhances both speed and efficiency, allowing operators to focus on critical decision-making rather than data gathering.

Global investment trends reflect this momentum. Recent projections suggest that Agentic AI will account for more than 26% of worldwide IT spending, surpassing US$1.3 trillion by 2029. Organizations are increasingly operationalizing AI at scale, moving beyond experimental phases to identify workflows ripe for automation, including incident triage and evidence packaging.

Digital Twins: Enhancing Decision-Making

The concept of Digital Twins—sophisticated virtual models that mirror real-world systems—has reached a level of practicality that is reshaping security operations. Traditionally utilized in sectors like manufacturing and logistics, the application of digital twins in security is becoming increasingly granular and sophisticated.

The Ministry of Communications in India reports that AI-driven Digital Twins are crucial for integrating real-time data from various sources while maintaining privacy. This technology allows for dynamic planning processes and facilitates a collaborative ecosystem. By enabling continuous monitoring and predictive analytics, organizations can make informed decisions based on simulated scenarios, thus optimizing resource allocation and enhancing resilience.

Companies like NVIDIA are utilizing digital twins in data centers, creating a unified view of operations through integrated sensors and systems. This interactive approach allows organizations to simulate scenarios, such as emergency evacuations or lockout strategies, thereby informing standard operating procedures and infrastructure planning.

The potential of digital twins extends beyond mere visualization; they provide organizations with the tools to manage complex environments actively. As the adoption of digital twins expands, the security industry’s approach to risk management and operational planning is expected to evolve, shifting from reactive to predictive strategies.

Wearables and AR: The Future of Security Tools

While the history of wearables and AR has been tumultuous, their resurgence in 2026 is being propelled by the integration of AI. This technology transforms these devices from simple tools into intelligent companions capable of providing real-time insights and support.

The Government of India emphasizes that the country is preparing for advanced technologies such as 5G, AI, and AR. The market for AR is projected to grow significantly, from US$35.8 billion in 2024 to US$233.3 billion by 2030, showcasing a compound annual growth rate of 37%. This growth reflects an increasing tendency among enterprises to leverage AR for various operational applications, including training and decision support.

These advancements allow security personnel to interact with their environments in ways previously unimaginable. For instance, a guard equipped with AR can ask questions about recent patrols or suspicious activities and receive immediate, evidence-backed responses. This capability enhances situational awareness while allowing personnel to maintain focus on their surroundings.

Although widespread adoption of these technologies may still be on the horizon, the trajectory is clear. The future of security work will be increasingly reliant on wearables and AR, powered by intelligent systems that provide real-time decision support.

In conclusion, the integration of these three transformative technologies—Agentic AI, Digital Twins, and AR wearables—is setting the stage for a new era in security operations. For Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) and operations leaders, the imperative for 2026 is to prioritize integration, explore simulation capabilities, and implement wearable technology that enhances decision-making. Success will be measured through operational metrics rather than novelty, as the security landscape in India evolves rapidly. The tools that were once experimental are now becoming essential partners in creating safer, more resilient security operations.