In this consistently emerging era of communication, social media is immersed as a powerful force shaping the modes of how we connect, exchange information, and build relationships.
While peering into the future, it has become a crucial point to investigate the impacts social media will have on us in the future. This investigation will evaluate the influence of social trends and developing technologies.
This examination unfolds the life-changing eventualities that lie ahead, defining the way we interact with each other and be contented. Here in this article, we are going to discuss the future of social media along with the emerging trends and technologies we can experience while using social media in the future:
What is the current state of social media?
Today, the use of social media networks has become an integral part of our lives. The commonly used social media platforms may include Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, WhatsApp, Snapchat, TikTok and others. Currently, there are many social media networks that are developing and influencing worldwide users.
A recent study has revealed that there are a total of 5.04 billion monthly active users available on different social media channels. The reasons behind this level of popularity of social media are the diverse range of functionalities.
For example, from distributing personal data to upbringing professional connections, and supporting various forms of content creation, these social media channels are facilitating users in many ways.
The emerging technologies in social media?
As the use of social media is increasing, new trends are also emerging in social media. For example, artificial intelligence is merging with social media, making the use of social media more refined. Here, what technologies are emerging with social media today to offer users a more advantageous experience!
1. The use of AI in social media
The use of AI in social media has become more prominent, helping businesses to ensure real-time engagement with users. For example, AI chatbots are used to provide personalized interactions with customers on social media. On the other hand, virtual assistants help users to comprehend context with real-time assistance.
At the same time, social media platforms have developed AI algorithmic approach. The AI algorithm helps measure user’s behaviour, interactions, and preferences. Based on these measures, social media provides users with personalized content recommendations.
This algorithmic approach does not only enhance user engagement. However, it helps social media influencers or creators to reach more like-minded people.
2. The use of virtual reality and augmented reality
Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are the technologies that are converting social media into absorptive experiences. These technologies have enabled users to interact with content in three-dimensional ranges. This idea has offered creators and businesses a new opportunity to narrate stories and showcase impressions in a more creative way.
3. Blockchain technology
When it comes to talking about storing data and transactions, blockchain technology becomes a core discussion. This technology offers secure and decentralized solutions, helping secure your data and transactions.
The technology also addresses concerns regarding data breaches and privacy on traditional social media networks. Furthermore, with the help of blockchain technology, you can develop decentralized social networks easily. Consequently, it gives users more control over their content or other information.
Top trends that are shaping the future of social media?
Now, is the time to discuss what is trending on social media. The trends comprise both ideas, i.e., what creators love to create more and what viewers love to watch more on social media channels. Here are the common trends creators are following on almost all types of social media channels:
1. Vertical and short-form video content
Short-form videos have become the more common way to create content and the trend is high in demand on almost all types of social media platforms. For example, TikTok allows users to create short videos in vertical dimensions. Almost all social media users liked this content type. Thus, the type has become a social media trend.
To fulfill this requirement of users, many other social media giants tried to show vertical short-form content. Examples are YouTube shorts, Instagram reels, Facebook reels, and Snapchat spotlights.
After this, the trend of storytelling is also ruling across social media. Creators or businesses who are good at telling stories along with visual aesthetics are successful profiles on social media.
This is the reason that creators and brands are paying much attention and effort to creating visually compelling and appealing content as it has the capacity to attract more people.
2. Limited-time content
Where short-form video content is among the latest social media trends, at the same time, limited-time content is also trending. An example of limited-time content is posting stories on your social media profiles. Almost all types of social media networks offer this opportunity for creators or businesses to post stories.
Stories disappear after 24 hours until you can save them as your highlights (the option is available on Instagram). This type of content is high in demand because of its limited duration.
For example, when you post a story on TikTok, it disappears within a day. It makes followers eager to open their favourite accounts or celebs to watch updates from their sides. The idea does not only keep viewers updated; however, it also helps creators boost TikTok followers, leading to better business growth.
3. The emergence of social commerce
As more advancements are seen in technology, social media networks are also flourishing simultaneously. One such example of advancement in social media is the integration of social commerce or shopping features.
On almost all the major social media platforms, the option of creating shops is available. This shopping feature allows users to purchase something directly from social media apps, without visiting the brand’s online or e-commerce stores.
After displaying this feature, businesses or brands are experiencing a huge difference in their sales or revenue. Thus, we can say that this blend of technology and social media helps creators and brands a lot in generating good revenue.
Challenges and concerns face by social media?
Where technology is leaving good impacts on social media networks in their growth. At the same time, it is bringing potential challenges for both, i.e., the social media channels and social media users. Below are some examples to be noted:
1. Privacy concerns
As the use of social media has become more prominent in our lives, the circumstances regarding data security and privacy have become amplified.
The storing or sharing of personal data through social media channels elevates ethical inquiries. Thus, it necessitates a balance between user privacy and personalized experience on social media channels.
2. Content authenticity
On social media, we, sometimes, become unable to measure the authenticity of the information. The risks of spreading misinformation and fake news are higher on social media.
In order to combat this challenge, collaborative efforts from social media channels, users, and regulatory bodies are required, to ensure the authenticity of shared data or content.
3. Mental health concerns
The normal use of social media can be a good activity to connect with people, engage in fun activities, and stay updated regarding your favourite stars and other news and events.
However, the addictive nature of social media may have adverse effects on users’ mental health. For example, a study has revealed that passive scrolling on social media may lead to anxiety. Providing resources for users’ mental health being and promoting healthy usage are some factors that can address these concerns.
What positive impacts does social media leave on its users?
The emerging trend of social media on the internet comes with many vigorous impacts. For example, from connecting people across the world to keeping an eye on the latest updates of what’s happening in the world, social media has made the world a global village. Here are some prominent advantages the world is acquiring with the emergence of social media:
1. Easy way to connect with people
Despite the challenges and other concerns we have discussed above, social media still stands as a powerful tool for connecting people globally. It brings the community together based on their values, interests, experiences, and personal choices, fostering a platform for meaningful relations.
2. Educational opportunities
Today, social media channels are not just serving themselves as a platform for fun activities and spending leisure time. These platforms have become the source of knowledge and education.
Today, from learning a recipe to solving a mathematical problem, there are plenty of educational opportunities available on social media. For example, you can find a number of channels or tutorials on YouTube regarding a single query.
Creators who create meaningful content to make people educated are making a difference on the platform. Creating helpful and educational content not only helps viewers to find the solutions to their problems; however, it also helps creators to gain more YouTube subscribers, which can help them grow their business more rapidly on social media.
3. Marketing hub for businesses or brands
Where social media channels have become a prominent source of education, at the same time, they are providing businesses and brands with exceptional opportunities to market their services and products to their targetted communities.
On almost all types of social media channels, you can easily reach your targetted community to showcase your services or products, enabling you to reach a large community within no time.
The closing statement
Indeed, social media has become the most powerful tool to connect with people, stay ahead of marketing trends, find potential solutions to serious queries, and even market your business at the global level. All this has become possible because of emerging technologies and trends embraced by social media networks. As technology is flourishing continuously, more advancements will also be arising in social media simultaneously.
Author Bio
Zeeshan Ali
Digital Content Strategist
Zeeshan is an adept Senior Content Developer with 5+ years of expertise in SEO-optimized content especially in the field of IT, Artificial Intelligence and Business Marketing. He holds a master’s degree in English Linguistics and Literature. Keen on exploring the latest digital marketing trends to help businesses achieve their goals.