A large audience sits facing a stage where a woman speaks at the “digitalise in sthlm” event. The stage background displays a digital cityscape, and the venue has tall windows and a vaulted ceiling.

Digitalize in Sthlm ’25 Explores the Era of “AI Everywhere”

Stockholm, 11 November 2025 – What happens when autonomous systems begin to act, learn, and decide alongside us? This question shaped the discussions at Digitalize in Sthlm ’25, held on Tuesday 11 November at Münchenbryggeriet under the theme “AI Everywhere – Exploring the Challenges, Risks, and Opportunities of Autonomous Systems.”

Hosted by Digital Futures, the annual conference gathered leading researchers, policymakers, and industry pioneers to explore how artificial intelligence can help build a sustainable, inclusive, and innovative digital society. With almost 700 participants onsite, the event once again positioned Stockholm at the heart of the European conversation on responsible technology.

Recordings of the keynote talks and panel discussions are published on the Digital Futures YouTube – see playlist Digitalize in Stockholm 2025.

Opening the Dialogue on AI’s Societal Impact

The day was masterfully moderated by Paulina Modlitba, founder of We Should Be Friends and KTH Alum of the Year 2018. With a background spanning robotics, human-AI interaction, and digital entrepreneurship, Modlitba has spent more than 15 years bridging academia, business, and creativity, making her an ideal guide for this year’s “AI Everywhere” theme.

A woman in a bright green outfit and pink necklace speaks on stage, gesturing with one hand and holding notes in the other, with a colourful Digitalise in Sthlm event backdrop behind her.

The conference opened with co-chairs of the Program Committee, Jörg Conradt, Associate Professor in Neurocomputing Systems, and Viktoria Fodor, Professor in the Division of Network and Systems Engineering — both at KTH Royal Institute of Technology. Together with Modlitba, they introduced the theme, explaining the rationale behind focusing on autonomous AI and its societal, ethical, and technological implications.

Three people stand on stage in front of a colourful backdrop that reads digitalise in sthlm 25. One man speaks while two women, one with a tablet, listen. A cityscape is visible in the background image.
Viktoria Fodor, Jörg Conradt and Paulina Modlitba

Welcoming remarks followed from Olle Burell, President of the Stockholm City Council; Anders Söderholm, President of KTH Royal Institute of Technology; and Siniša Zubić, Research Center Manager at Hitachi Energy Sweden. Burell emphasized the development of Stockholm as a city of innovation and its influence on the global stage. Söderholm reflected on research-driven societal development and welcomed Hitachi as a new partner of Digital Futures, while Zubić highlighted the importance of collaboration between industry and academia in advancing technological progress.

A man in a suit and glasses speaks on stage, gesturing with one hand. Behind him is a vibrant screen displaying the words “digitalise in sthlm ’25” against a cityscape background.
Olle Burell, President of the Stockholm City Council
Two men in suits stand on stage with microphones. The background displays the word digitalise in large letters, with a blurred cityscape underneath and a blue sky with clouds.
Anders Söderholm, President of KTH Royal Institute of Technology; and Siniša Zubić, Research Center Manager at Hitachi Energy Sweden

Keynotes: From Surgery to Symbiosis

The first keynote, “Advanced Connectivity in Healthcare – Leveraging Wireless Networks and AI,” was delivered by Dr. Gao Yujia, Consultant Surgeon and Assistant Group Chief Technology Officer at the National University Health System (Singapore). Yujia illustrated how 5G-enabled healthcare ecosystems are transforming hospitals, wearables, and home devices into intelligent, interconnected systems. His pioneering work in mixed reality for surgical training and digital health infrastructure positions him at the forefront of clinical AI innovation. Read more in this article on Digital Futures website.

A man in a suit, wearing glasses and a headset microphone, gestures while speaking on stage. He holds a mobile in one hand, with a presentation slide about mental health and AI visible in the background.
Dr. Gao Yujia, Consultant Surgeon and Assistant Group Chief Technology Officer at the National University Health System, Singapore

Before lunch, Marcus Weiland, Vice VD and Deputy Managing Director at Savantic AB, addressed “Meaningful AI in Industry: Creating Value in a Physical World.” Focusing on physical AI, he explored how data, sensors, networks, and human expertise converge to create measurable industrial impact, from manufacturing to logistics. Weiland emphasized aligning AI with business strategy, workforce development, and sustainability goals, highlighting Sweden’s potential to lead in applied AI. Read more in this article on Digital Futures website.

A bald man wearing glasses and a dark shirt speaks on stage, holding a mobile phone and gesturing with his hand. Behind him is a vibrant, futuristic cityscape backdrop with blue tones and digital graphics. A glass of water is on the table beside him.
Marcus Weiland, Vice VD and Deputy Managing Director at Savantic AB

In the afternoon, Dr. Mar Gonzalez-Franco, Research Scientist and Manager at Google XR (Seattle), presented “Towards Human-AI Symbiosis with XR.” Gonzalez-Franco, recognized internationally for her work on immersive interaction, outlined a future where humans and AI collaborate through XR devices, enabling humans to evolve alongside intelligent systems. Read more in this article on Digital Futures website.

A person with short light brown hair and round glasses, wearing a loose black top, speaks on stage holding a device, with a screen displaying text and buildings in the background.
Dr. Mar Gonzalez-FrancoResearch Scientist and Manager at Google XR, Seattle, USA

Rounding out the program, Dr. Joakim Appelquist, Vice President of the Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences (IVA), shared insights from the report “Sweden’s Competitiveness and Investment Priorities.” Mapping 48 strategically important technologies, Appelquist highlighted Sweden’s industrial and academic strengths and how targeted investments can enhance national innovation, resilience, and sustainability.

A man in a suit and glasses speaks on stage with a headset microphone, gesturing with his hands. A colourful, blurred cityscape and abstract graphics are visible in the background.
Dr. Joakim Appelquist, Vice President of the Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences (IVA)

Panels: Navigating Opportunities, Limits, and Human Values

The morning panel “AI – Technology Opportunities and Limits”, moderated by Robert Luciani of Nerv Dynamics, explored how far AI can realistically go. Luciani, a high-performance computing and AI expert, guided a debate among Amy Loutfi (Örebro University), Karim Nouira (SICS.AI), and Emma Strinning Stavrou (Xylem). The discussion addressed foundation models, autonomous systems, and industrial applications, balancing visionary predictions with grounded skepticism about AI’s current limitations in energy efficiency, reasoning, and trustworthiness.

Four people stand on a stage facing an audience, three holding green signs that say YES. One person holds a tablet. Flowers and glasses of water are on a table next to them. A large blue screen forms the backdrop.
Panelists Emma Strinning Stavrou, Amy Loutfi, Karim Nouira and moderator Robert Luciani explored how far AI can realistically go.

In the afternoon, “AI and Human Values: Who Decides, Who Benefits?”, moderated by Liane Colonna (Stockholm University), delved into the ethical and societal implications of AI. Panelists Johan Fredrikzon, Katja de Vries, and Alexis de Kerchove debated the challenges of embedding human values into AI while respecting cultural diversity and legal frameworks. The conversation highlighted accountability, sustainability, and the broader societal impact of increasingly autonomous systems.

A large audience watches a panel discussion on stage at a tech conference. The screen behind speakers displays the topic: AI and Human Values: Who Decides, Who Benefits? with colourful digital graphics and binary code.
Panelists Alexis de Kerchove, Katja de Vries, Johan Fredrikzon and moderator Liane Colonna debated the challenges of embedding human values into AI while respecting cultural diversity and legal frameworks.
Three people stand behind a clear lectern on stage, each holding a green sign that says YES. A colourful background displays large numbers and bright lights. The audience is visible in the foreground.

EXPO Sessions and the Partner Fair: Research in Motion

The conference’s interactive EXPO sessions provided hands-on exploration of up to 20 projects per session across four 40-minute periods. From Digital Innovation for Life and Health to Living with Technology, attendees engaged directly with researchers, observed live demonstrations, and participated in discussions fueled by coffee and curiosity. The event app allowed visitors to mark favorite projects and access full project descriptions online.

A man gestures while speaking to two women at a technology expo stand with a large screen displaying a presentation and a banner that reads We're here. Other attendees are visible in the background.
The EXPO sessions and PARTNER FAIR generated lots of interest and discussions.

Running alongside the EXPOs, the Partner Fair showcased Digital Futures’ partners, including AstraZeneca, Ericsson, Hitachi, Saab, Xylem, Region Stockholm, KTH, Stockholm University, RISE, and others such as WASP, MIMER AI Factory, DIGG, and LINK. The fair offered a vibrant arena for discussion, networking, and discovery — giving attendees insight into ongoing projects, emerging technologies, and collaborative initiatives shaping the future. Visitors were encouraged to explore how partners contribute to research and innovation both locally and internationally.

Stockholm’s AI Start-up Ecosystem

A closing conversation moderated by Lisa Ericsson, Head of KTH Innovation, focused on “Stockholm’s AI start-up landscape – from local innovators to global disruptors.” Panelists Elin Mårtensson (AI-BOB), Hamed Mohammadpour (Finna), and Urban Forssell (Digital Futures) discussed the opportunities, challenges, and unique characteristics that make Stockholm a thriving hub for AI innovation. Topics ranged from talent and funding to scaling ventures globally, emphasizing the city’s potential to translate research and entrepreneurship into real-world impact.

Four people stand around a clear table on stage, engaged in discussion, with a colourful blue and orange backdrop and an audience seated in front of them. Flowers are arranged to the side of the table.
Panelists Hamed Mohammadpour, Elin Mårtensson and Urban Forssell discussed what makes that makes Stockholm a thriving hub for AI innovation with moderator Lisa Ericsson

Closing Reflections

As the day came to a close, Co-Chairs Jörg Conradt and Viktoria Fodor returned to the stage with moderator Paulina Modlitba to reflect on the discussions, insights, and energy of the day. They thanked the Program Committee and Communications Committee, with representatives from all Digital Futures partners and Digital Futures funded researchers and Future Digileaders presenting their projects during EXPO sessions – and everyone who contributed to making the event a success.

– As the Organizational Chair, it’s been incredible to see AI Everywhere come alive — not just as a theme, but as a mindset. Watching researchers, innovators, and partners connect around ideas that blend technology with human values has been truly inspiring. It reminds me why collaboration is at the heart of what we do at Digital Futures, says Johanna Gavefalk, Communications Officer at Digital Futures.

A large group of people socialise at an indoor event with exposed brick walls. A blue digitalise banner is visible, and guests are dressed in business attire. The atmosphere is lively and professional.
The event provided lots of opportunities to mingle and network!

The atmosphere during the closing mingle reflected that same spirit — open, curious, and collaborative — as conversations continued over food and music, rounding off a full day of learning, inspiration, and new connections.

A group of people wearing teal digital futures shirts pose and smile on a stage, alongside a woman in a white blazer, with a bright digital-themed background behind them.
KTH student helpers and Digital Futures operations team.

Special thanks to the event agency Meetx and the tech team at Adapt for their critical contributions in delivering a smooth, engaging conference experience. Also big thanks to our students helpers and Digital Futures Operations team for incredible support through out the day and last but not least all staff at Münchenbryggeriet.

Text: Johanna Gavefalk
Photo: Magnus Glans

More photos in the gallery!

People walk along a pavement next to a stone building with large windows and blue “digitalise” flags. One person is opening a glass door to enter the building. It looks like a business or event venue.
A man in a suit and open-collared shirt speaks on stage, wearing a headset microphone, with his hands raised. A blue and white blurred background with large text is visible behind him.
A woman with shoulder-length brown hair, wearing a blue jumper and a headset microphone, gestures with her hands whilst speaking on stage against a blue sky background.
A man in a suit gives a presentation to an audience, standing in front of a large screen displaying a medical image labelled Rib Tumour Localisation and Excision. The audience watches attentively.
A man in a suit and tie gestures while speaking to a woman in a bright green and blue outfit onstage, in front of an audience. A cityscape backdrop with tall buildings is visible behind them.
A man in a suit speaks confidently on stage, wearing a headset microphone. He gestures with his hands, standing in front of a blue and pink backdrop with blurred text and cityscape elements.
A panel of four speakers stands on stage at an AI technology conference, addressing an audience. Behind them, a large screen displays panel information and an image of a person wearing a VR headset.
A man speaks animatedly on stage with two other people during an event. The screen behind them displays the text AI – Technology: Opportunities and Limits. Bright lighting and flowers are visible in the scene.
A large group of people socialising at an indoor networking event, with some holding drinks. There is a “digitalise” banner and brick walls in the background, along with white curtains and a modern, tech-themed atmosphere.
Two people in business attire stand in a brightly lit event space, holding drinks and engaged in conversation, with other attendees and tables visible in the background.
A woman with short blonde hair speaks on stage wearing a dark jacket and a headset microphone. She gestures with her hands, and glass bottles are on the table in front of her. The background is colourful and abstract.
A woman with grey hair and glasses, wearing a purple blazer and light shirt, speaks on stage with a colourful, blurry blue and pink background. She gestures with her hands near a clear lectern.
Four people stand onstage having a discussion at a tech event. The background screen reads Stockholm’s AI Start-up landscape. A table with water glasses and a vase of orange flowers is in the foreground.
A man in a blue suit gestures whilst speaking on stage with a woman beside him; both wear headset microphones, and colourful lights create a vibrant background.
Two people stand behind a clear table with glasses and a water carafe, speaking into headset microphones on a brightly lit stage with blue vertical lights in the background.
A man in a suit and glasses gestures whilst speaking on stage in front of a blue presentation screen and cityscape backdrop, with audience members visible in the foreground.
Three people in business attire wear virtual reality headsets and interact with controllers at an indoor event, whilst others watch in the background. The atmosphere appears lively and focused on technology.
A group of people socialising at an indoor networking event; two women and a man are talking and smiling in the foreground, whilst others mingle in the background.
Two people stand side by side posing for a photo in front of a backdrop showing a cityscape with water and digital graphics, indoors with exposed brick walls and a camera set-up visible.
People at a tech expo stand interact with a display showing Ericsson equipment diagrams. One man gestures to the screen while others observe, and various devices and cables are arranged on the counter.
A man in a suit stands behind a stand with AstraZeneca branding, speaking to two people and handing out brochures at a busy indoor event or conference.
A man with glasses and a beard, wearing a suit jacket and a headset microphone, gestures whilst speaking on a brightly lit stage with colourful lights and abstract graphics in the background.
A woman wearing a green jumper speaks animatedly on stage with a microphone headset, gesturing with her hands. She stands behind a clear table with glasses of water, flowers, and a water bottle. The background is colourful and vibrant.
An older man with grey hair and beard, wearing glasses and a grey blazer, speaks on stage with a headset microphone against a vibrant pink and purple background.
Three people stand behind a clear lectern, each holding up a red sign that says NO in white letters. They are on stage with a colourful digital background and an audience in front of them.
Two women sit in orange chairs and have a conversation on stage, with a colourful cityscape mural in the background. One woman gestures with her hand whilst the other listens attentively, holding a tablet.
A smiling man with glasses stands in the foreground at a networking event, wearing a dark shirt and a lanyard. Several people are talking and mingling in the blurred background.
A person holds up a mobile phone to record or photograph a presentation or conference, with the stage and audience visible on the phone screen. The scene is filled with people in the background.
A speaker addresses a large seated audience at a conference. Behind the speaker, a screen displays a fiery steel mill image and the words THE STEEL NEED. The stage features modern décor and cityscape graphics.
Two men stand behind an AstraZeneca stand, talking to attendees at an event. Promotional materials and informational brochures are displayed on the counter. People are engaged in conversation with the stand representatives.
A smiling man with curly hair and glasses sits at a high table with a laptop, in front of MIMER AI FACTORY banners and screens showcasing software at a tech event.
A man in a SAAB shirt speaks to two people at a stand with a display screen and a bowl of sweets. The stand features the SAAB logo and the slogan The difference is you. Other people interact nearby.
Four people converse at a stand with a blue “Xylem” banner about water solutions. Two men stand in the foreground, two women are at the display table with brochures and a cup, and a screen shows an informational graphic.
A woman in an orange shirt enthusiastically speaks to three people at a stand about a digital programme for Europe, with informational signs and a monitor displaying a digital map in the background.
A woman with a conference badge listens attentively to a group at a networking event, with stands, posters, and other attendees in the background.
Two men converse at a round table during a busy expo. One holds cards, and a Stockholm University sign is visible in the background. Other people interact and visit stands in the brightly lit room.
A woman speaks with a man in front of a digital display at a busy tech event. Other people and laptops are visible in the background, with a blue promotional banner behind them.
A man in a suit and tie holds a coffee cup whilst talking with three other people at a networking event. The group is indoors, and the background is blurred with blue and light tones.
A large group of people mingle and converse at an indoor event or conference. Several attendees wear name badges and lanyards. The background is blurred, focusing on networking and conversation.
Three men in business attire interact at a networking event; two stand together while the third man, facing away from the camera, shakes hands with one of them. The background shows other attendees in a bright, open space.
A group of people stand around a table with coffee cups, engaged in conversation at a lively indoor event or conference. Bright lighting and other attendees are visible in the background.
A screen displays AI & the Law as people converse in a bright room with wooden floors and a large clock on the wall in the background. The event discusses AI decision-making and accountability.
Three people have a discussion in front of a screen displaying a presentation titled Centralised Power & Collective Intelligence at an indoor event. The woman in the centre gestures with her hands whilst talking.
Four people sit and talk at a round table in front of a large screen displaying a discussion topic titled AI & the Law at an event. The screen asks about legal accountability for AI decisions.
A group of people socialises at an event in front of a screen displaying “AI & Sustainability” and “Food for thought,” discussing the impact of AI on climate challenges and energy consumption.
A large group of people gather at a networking event in a bright, spacious venue. Some stand in small groups talking and holding coffee cups, while event stands are visible in the background, including one from Xylem.
A group of people wearing blue digital talent shirts and name tags stand in a circle on a stage, talking and smiling, with a cityscape background and blue vertical lights behind them.

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