Finding value with AI and Industry 5.0 transformation

MIT Technology Review

by MIT Technology Review Insights

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The article explores the evolution from Industry 4.0 to Industry 5.0, emphasizing a shift from integrating technologies like AI, cloud computing, and IoT to orchestrating them at scale for human-centric outcomes. Industry 5.0 aims to enhance environmental sustainability, augment human potential, and foster collaboration between humans and machines, breaking down data silos and optimizing resource use. This transformation is not just about automation but about creating new enterprise value through strategic growth, resilience, and well-being. However, the article highlights challenges in realizing Industry 5.0’s full potential. Many organizations prioritize efficiency over growth and sustainability due to cultural barriers, misaligned technology investments, and a lack of clear strategies. According to EY research, while human-centric and sustainable use cases deliver higher value, they are often underfunded. The shift requires not only new technologies but also new ways of working, focusing on strategy, culture, and leadership to unlock the full potential of AI and other intelligent systems. The article underscores the importance of aligning technology investments with strategic goals that prioritize growth, sustainability, and human-centric outcomes. Industry leaders like Chris Ware from Rio Tinto emphasize the need for clear roadmaps that define how technologies can deliver the best value. Without discipline in tracking value creation, investments risk being wasted on incremental efficiency gains rather than transformative growth. This transformation matters to readers interested in AI because it highlights the evolving role of technology in creating sustainable and human-centric business models. By focusing on collaboration, sustainability, and strategic growth, Industry 5.0 offers a roadmap for organizations to harness the full potential of AI and other emerging technologies, ensuring they contribute not

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Originally published on MIT Technology Review on 2/26/2026