The digital world is advancing at an unprecedented pace, and the social media are not far behind. Every day, they introduce new features to set themselves apart from the competition and attract users. Meanwhile, those of us on the other side of the screen try to keep up with them and adapt to the new features they introduce, although it can sometimes feel like an uphill struggle. That’s why, in this post, we’re sharing The 10 social media trends In 2024. Is TikTok still the users’ platform of choice? Are videos or photos more popular? And will artificial intelligence go out of fashion? Read on to find out how to navigate this fast-changing landscape successfully!
The 10 trends that will shape the future of social media in 2024
Use of Augmented Reality
Augmented reality is a form of technology that superimposes layers of virtual elements onto real-world images. In practice, we’re talking about those typical Instagram filters with animal ears, or the viral videos on TikTok where you appear to be in Rome, when in fact you haven’t even left the house.
Brands have already recognised the potential of this technology to promote their products and boost sales. That is why they have incorporated it into their strategy todigital marketing and have promoted initiatives such as trying out virtual products or listening to immersive narratives. In 2024, the platforms aim to continue integrating augmented reality to provide users with more immersive experiences and thus meet their needs.
TikTok’s expansion
TikTok is here to stay. At least that will be the case this year. What started out as a platform solely for uploading dance videos has now gained millions of users by targeting specific niches and offering contents for all kinds of audiences. Whether you’re looking for a job, are passionate about reading, or simply want to share your day-to-day life, TikTok is designed for you. With its unique focus on creativity and instant entertainment, it has become a key platform for self-expression, content discovery and social connection, as well as being the preferred social network for a large proportion of content creators.
Furthermore, this platform has influenced certain changes that have taken place in Facebook and Instagram who have had to prioritise the video format in order to compete with TikTok. At this point, we’d like to remind you of something: before you take the plunge or launch your brand on this social media platform, consider whether your target audience is there and how they respond to the content you want to create.
Video remains the most popular format
If you’re torn between sharing something with images or videos, we’ll help you decide: go for the latter. In 2024, videos remain the star format, driven precisely by platforms such as TikTok. There’s no set formula for success here: as a brand, you can create original content about what you offer or jump on trends that are already well-established on social media. Just make sure the videos are short and filmed in portrait format so they can be enjoyed more easily on a mobile. Also, don’t force the content just to make it go viral.
Social media platforms are now search engines too
How many times have you searched for a brand on Instagram before turning to Google? You’re not the only one who’s done it. These days, it’s very common to check out a brand’s social media profiles first, look at their posts and read the comments before making a purchase. That’s why implementing SEO strategies on these platforms is now essential. Hashtags alone are no longer enough: by 2024, you’ll need to go one step further and optimise keywords so that you appear among the top search results.
Use of interactive videos
Videos will no longer be a one-way experience. Platforms are increasingly incorporating elements such as polls or questionnaires into videos to make them a two-way, interactive experience. This also leads to greater feedback between users and businesses.
Artificial intelligence is becoming firmly established
I’m sure you’ve got a friend who’s taken a trip back to the ’90s in a school yearbook with the help of the Artificial Intelligence (AI). Well, this year it will no longer be just a passing fad. Platforms have realised that AI has much more to offer and are integrating this tool to understand and anticipate users’ needs, with more sophisticated recommendation systems and automated content moderation tools.
Furthermore, AI-powered content generation tools will continue to be favoured by users and brands seeking to speed up the creative process. In this case, if you use an AI-generated output as a multimedia element, you must make this clear to avoid misinformation.
Gamification on social media
Integrating games into platforms will be a trend this year to boost audience engagement and retain users. From challenges and rewards to scoring systems and competitions, gamification transforms the audience experience into a more dynamic and engaging activity. Furthermore, this trend not only promotes interaction between users, but also encourages the creation of creative and original content.
Listening to users is a priority
Companies are interested in what the customer about their brand. That is why they implement listening tools to understand what consumers need, find out their opinions and gain an insight into their feelings. Generally speaking, listening to users makes it easier to resolve problems, tailor marketing strategies, analyse emerging trends and manage the brand’s reputation in real time.
The rise of broadcast channels
There are quite a few influencers and companies that already have a channel for sharing content, particularly on Instagram. They have found that this format allows them to come across as much more natural and to connect with their audience. To date, the relationship has been one-way, as only the channel’s creators and moderators can post, although they do receive responses in the form of emojis from their followers.
More sharing and fewer ‘likes’: the new metrics
By 2024, the number of ‘likes’ a post receives will no longer be as important as the number of times it has been shared or saved. These metrics are less susceptible to manipulation and are geared towards genuine engagement and tangible business results.
If you’d like to learn more about this and many other areas related to social media and how to use it, do feel free to follow us on the Educa.Pro blog.
