The digital marketing landscape moves faster than you can say “SEO.” Between algorithm updates and brand-new tech innovations, there’s always something new shaking it up. If you want your business to stay ahead, you can’t just keep up with current trends – you need to be two steps ahead, anticipating the next big thing before it hits.

Here at b4b Marketing, we’re all about keeping our ear to the ground (and our eye on the screen). Below, we dive into the top 3 trends that are poised to shake things up over the next five years.

1. Artificial intelligence (surprise!)

This one probably isn’t too much of a shock. AI has already revolutionised digital marketing in a magnitude of ways – it’s used to analyse vast amounts of data, segment audiences for precise campaign targeting, generate ideas, write headlines, create videos, and so much more – and this transformation shows no signs of slowing down.

Digital marketing companies continue to find fresh, exciting new ways to stand out using AI. For example, Nike’s award-winning ‘Never Done Evolving’ campaign in 2023 used machine learning to create a virtual match between the Serena Williams of 1999 and the Serena of 2017. The match was broadcast to the public as a YouTube livestream and reached over 1.69 million of Nike’s subscribers.

The world of AI moves fast, which makes it hard to predict where it’ll go next. With that said, here are some trends that are likely to shape the coming years:

  • Increased personalisation: The more data AI models analyse, the better they’ll become at tailoring ads, website content, and product recommendations in real-time. AI will have processed a mind-boggling amount of data by 2029, leading to a higher level of personalisation that could massively boost engagement and conversion rates.
  • Content creation: It’s unlikely that AI will ever totally replace humans, but it will become an increasingly important tool for content creation. It will excel at conceptualisation, writing, and image and video generation, freeing up marketers’ time for more strategic activities.
  • Virtual assistants: AI-powered chatbots are expected to become more sophisticated than ever, offering human-like conversations and personalised customer support 24/7. This will have a big impact on customer experience and brand loyalty.

2. Voice search

People aren’t throwing out their keyboards just yet, but voice search is continuing to skyrocket in popularity. One study found that about 50% of mobile users utilise voice search daily!

A lot of this is thanks to voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Apple’s Siri, which have made saying “Hey Siri” or “Alexa, what’s the weather?” second nature. It’s simply easier to ask your device than to type, especially with voice recognition getting smarter by the day and understanding our requests much better.

People are using voice search to ask questions in a more natural way, just like they would ask a friend. This is leading to longer, more complex, and more conversational search queries. To keep up, businesses need to optimise their content accordingly, using long-tail keywords, conversational language, and focusing on answering questions people are likely to ask verbally.

3. Augmented reality (AR)

Ever been shopping for furniture on your phone and spotted a “See It in Your Room” button? You tap it, and suddenly that lamp or bookcase you’re eyeing pops up in your space through your phone’s camera. You can see if it fits, matches your style, and looks good without having to actually buy it!

This feature uses Augmented Reality (AR), a technology that overlays computer-generated images onto the real world. As AR gets more accurate, reliable, and easier to use, a lot more businesses are jumping on board, and it’s only going to become more widespread.

Here are just a few ways companies are using AR technology currently:

  • Trying before you buy: Companies like IKEA use AR apps that allow you to virtually place a 3D model of the furniture in your own space to see how it looks before you buy it. This can be applied to many products, from cosmetics (think trying on lipstick shades) to décor (visualising new paint colours for your home).
  • Better shopping experiences: AR can add a new dimension to physical stores. Beauty brands like Sephora use AR mirrors that allow customers to virtually try on makeup before they commit to a purchase. Similarly, Amazon’s AR app lets users point their phone at a product in-store to get additional information, reviews, or even see how it might look in their home.
  • Interactive marketing campaigns: Remember the craze of Pokémon Go? This wildly popular game used AR to overlay pokémon onto the real world, turning everyone’s phone into a monster-catching device. Brands can leverage similar AR experiences to create interactive games, scavenger hunts, or promotions that get people engaged with their products.
  • Social media filters: Social media platforms like Instagram and Snapchat offer AR filters that users can add to their photos and videos. Brands can create custom filters that promote their products or services in a fun and interactive way.

Set the pace with b4b’s expert digital marketing services

At b4b Marketing, we stay ahead of the curve by constantly exploring new tech and tactics to benefit our clients. Whether it’s using AI to boost your SEO or staying on top of Google’s latest algorithm updates for PPC, our focus is on getting you the results that matter: more return on investment, increased brand awareness, and long-term success.

Ready to jump on board? We’d love to chat and show you exactly how our marketing services can help your business thrive. Don’t hesitate to get in touch!