My suggestions to DAW-makers for 2026

Here's what DAWs need to do with the use of ML in 2026 – do not get locked into just one ML model / technology. Think like how Time Stretch / Pitch Shift was handled a couple of decades ago. The user can choose between basic, rhythmic, Elastique, or any other custom algorithm. In the same way, let the user choose which voice enhancement, automatic mixing, mastering etc models they want to choose. Open up your SDK so that you don't have to worry about integrating them on your own. Yes, plugins is a way to achieve this but I'm talking about features that are being built into the DAW itself these days – majority of them are based on working with 3rd party solutions but often just one. I'll repeat myself again: do NOT get locked in! Think collaborative, think smart. And THAT is how you can "democratise" audio for everyone – a keyword that every 'AI-powered' company loves to use just to sell their stuff, but guess what, there is indeed a chance to improve the choices available to the users. You're welcome to use this tip for free. As long as this becomes a reality, I'm all okay with giving ideas away. Reach out anytime at letters@prashantmishra.xyz to collaborate or discuss further.