AI improves email open rates in 2026 primarily through dynamic subject line and send-time optimisation, powered by machine learning algorithms that analyse individual recipient behaviour and predict optimal engagement windows.
As of December 2025, platforms like Campaign Monitor, Klaviyo, and ActiveCampaign now include AI-driven features. These systems work by continuously processing data points – including past open rates, click-through rates, device types, location (important for Australian time zones), and even website browsing history – to build a predictive model for each subscriber. In 2026, these platforms are expanding beyond simple A/B testing. They utilise multi-armed bandit algorithms to dynamically allocate more sends to subject lines and send times that are performing best *in real-time*, for each individual. Some platforms also integrate with Australia Post’s address verification services to improve deliverability, indirectly impacting open rates. Compliance with Australian privacy laws (like the Privacy Act 1988) is managed through anonymised data processing and consent management features within these platforms. Currently, these features typically add a cost of between 10-20% to the base platform subscription price for Australian businesses.
Essentially, AI personalises the email experience at scale, increasing the likelihood of an email being seen by analysing and responding to individual subscriber preferences.
