The world of content creation is ever-evolving, and staying ahead of the curve is essential for creators. In 2025, several trending content formats are set to dominate the digital landscape. From vertical videos to live streaming and shoppable posts, these formats are shaping how audiences consume content. Here’s what you need to know to stay relevant and boost engagement.
1. Vertical Videos: The Must-Have Format
Vertical videos continue to lead in 2025, thanks to the dominance of mobile-first platforms. Social media giants like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube Shorts have propelled this trend by prioritising full-screen experiences that keep viewers engaged longer. Creators are using this format for storytelling, tutorials, and product showcases, often pairing high-quality visuals with concise messaging. For example, global brands have successfully leveraged vertical videos to provide behind-the-scenes glimpses of events and feature user-generated content. Companies like Nike and Red Bull have seen increased engagement by using Instagram Reels to share short, dynamic clips highlighting athletic achievements and fan-created videos, reinforcing their community-focused messaging.
2. Shoppable Posts: Turning Browsers into Buyers
The integration of shopping features directly into content is revolutionising e-commerce. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have embraced this trend, enabling creators to tag products in their posts and transform their content into seamless purchasing opportunities. Fashion and beauty influencers regularly curate styled shoots where viewers can tap on images to buy featured items instantly. Influencers like Chiara Ferragni have turned their Instagram feeds into virtual storefronts, allowing followers to explore and purchase entire outfits with just a few clicks. This convergence of content and commerce caters to the growing demand for convenient online shopping experiences, where inspiration and purchase are just a tap away.
3. Live Streaming: Real-Time Engagement
Live streaming remains one of the top content formats in 2025, offering an unparalleled opportunity for real-time interaction. Creators use live broadcasts for everything from Q&A sessions and product launches to behind-the-scenes tours, fostering authenticity and a sense of exclusivity. Brands have capitalised on this trend by hosting interactive shopping events that combine product demonstrations with instant purchasing options. Sephora, for instance, has hosted live beauty tutorials on Instagram where viewers can ask questions in real time while shopping for featured products. This direct engagement not only drives sales but also builds stronger connections between creators and their audiences.
4. Immersive AR and VR Experiences
Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are no longer niche technologies. In 2025, they’re integral to how creators offer immersive experiences. AR filters, already commonplace on platforms like Instagram and Snapchat, have become tools for interactive storytelling and creative self-expression. Retail brands are increasingly using AR to enhance customer experiences; for example, IKEA’s Place app enables users to visualise furniture in their homes before purchasing, making shopping more interactive and practical. VR is also gaining traction, with creators hosting virtual meet-and-greets or offering 360-degree travel experiences. These technologies allow audiences to engage with content in new, memorable ways that traditional formats can’t match.
5. Audio Content: The Rise of Microcasts
Audio content has evolved beyond traditional podcasts with the rise of microcasts—short, focused audio segments tailored to fast-paced lifestyles. Typically under five minutes, microcasts cover everything from quick tips and industry updates to niche discussions. Platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts have embraced this trend by featuring bite-sized series that cater to listeners seeking on-the-go content. News outlets, such as the BBC and NPR, have launched daily audio briefings that deliver key information in just a few minutes, making it easy for audiences to stay informed during commutes or quick breaks. Creators are also pairing microcasts with visual elements on social media, using animated waveforms or captioned clips to expand their reach.
Adapting to the Future of Content
Thriving in 2025 requires embracing these content formats early. Diversifying your strategy to include a mix of video, audio, and interactive content helps broaden audience reach and engagement. Use analytics to monitor what resonates with your audience and refine your approach accordingly.
Experimentation is key. Explore new tools, test platform-specific trends, and remain open to innovation. The digital landscape is evolving rapidly, and creators who adapt quickly will find new ways to connect with audiences and unlock growth opportunities.
Wrapping It Up
From vertical videos to immersive AR experiences, the trending content formats of 2025 are reshaping the digital world. Creators who adopt these formats stand out, build stronger communities, and discover new monetisation avenues. By studying how leading creators and brands utilise these trends—whether through interactive live streams or shoppable posts—you can find practical ways to incorporate them into your strategy.
Stay creative, stay consistent, and always keep your finger on the pulse of what’s next. The future of content creation is here—make it yours.
