With the last quarter of 2025, it's not too late to shore up your social media video marketing strategy. Social media videos, their creation, technology, and platforms have constantly evolved over the past seven years. That's why it's essential to continuously monitor industry trends to ensure your videos stay ahead of the curve and engage your audience. Here are the latest trends to watch for and incorporate before the year's end and carry into 2026!
1. Hyper-personalized AI experiences
Throughout 2025, we've seen how AI and data analytics have allowed creators to make more sophisticated personalized videos. And now things are getting even more personalized. Imagine receiving a video message tailored to your preferences, browsing history, or location. Companies are using more AI to dynamically customize and personalize content, making every viewer feel like the video was made just for them.
2. Immersive 3D and AR content
Augmented Reality (AR) and 3D videos are becoming more mainstream on social platforms. You can virtually try on clothes, glasses, and hairdos for fashion, and videos will now feature more interactive product demos or immersive brand stories that users can explore in 3D space. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat are expanding AR features, making these experiences more accessible.
3. Smarter shorts
Short videos (15-60 seconds) will still be the most popular, but they'll become even more creative and strategic. Expect more vertical, bite-sized content optimized for mobile viewing, focusing on storytelling that instantly hooks your audience. Trends like TikTok challenges, viral sounds, and quick tutorials will evolve into more polished, branded mini-series segments.
4. Live video and real-time engagement
Live streaming is more prevalent than ever, but now it's becoming more interactive and integrated. You can host live Q&As ,behind-the-scenes tours, product launches, and virtual events, encouraging real-time participation. Features like live polls, chat, and AR effects will make these sessions more engaging, building more trust with your audience and making them feel more valued.
5. Genuine testimonials and storytelling give authenticity
Videos featuring real people and employees(user-generated content) sharing their personal experiences and results with a product or service are more relatable to your target audience and instill credibility. Plus, authentic storytelling will be key to building emotional connections to keep your audience coming back for more.
6. AI-generated content
AI tools will continue to automate more video creation ,from scripting and voiceovers to editing. Expect platforms to generate personalized video ads, product demos, or social snippets based on user data. This will help make your content creation faster, more scalable, and more targeted to your audience.
7. Multi-platform video strategies
Cross-platform consistency will be essential to reach your audience where they are and maximize your return on investment (ROI).You'll want to craft videos optimized for multiple channels, such as vertical for TikTok and Reels, landscape for YouTube, and square for Facebook and then repurpose content across platforms. More advanced tools will help streamline this process for your creative team.
8. Sustainability and ethical messaging in video content
As consumers become more eco-conscious, you'll want to consider incorporating sustainability and social responsibility into your videos. Highlighting eco-friendly practices, social causes, and ethical sourcing will be more than just a trend; it may become necessary to appeal to your target audience.
9. Interactive and shoppable videos
Video shopping experiences will become seamless. Viewers can click on a video and buy products directly, participate in polls ,or explore different options within the video itself. This integration ofe-commerce and video will make shopping more engaging and convenient.
10. Connected TV and streaming ads
Connected TV (CTV) is growing fast. Brands are testing their videos on streaming platforms and social media, blending TV-style ads with social content for maximum impact.
Make 2026 your most successful year!
The key to developing videos that will engage your audience is to stay flexible and keep experimenting. Use the latest tools, listen to your audience, monitor trends, and don't be afraid to try new formats or platforms.
"Staying ahead in social media video marketing requires embracing the latest trends now. Those who adapt early will build stronger, more authentic connections with their audiences in 2026,"concludes Sharon Kirk, Digital Media Director at Radiant Digital.
