Driven by new technologies, changing user behaviours & the demand for more intuitive & delightful digital experiences, UI & UX is also changing.
As we get closer & closer to 2025, we’ve predicted a couple of trends we think are set to shape how we design interfaces & interactions next year.
#1 Immersive experiences through AR & VR
Augmented reality (AR) & virtual reality (VR) are poised to redefine how users interact with digital products. With advancements in hardware & software, immersive experiences will become more accessible & engaging across industries, from e-commerce to education.
Our top tips on making this work:
- Focus on usability: Design intuitive controls for AR & VR experiences. Use familiar gestures & minimise learning curves.
- Prioritise accessibility: Incorporate features like audio cues & adaptable text sizes to ensure inclusivity in AR/VR environments.
#2 AI-driven personalisation
AI will continue to revolutionise personalisation, offering users experiences tailored to their preferences, behaviour & context in real-time.
Our top tips on making this work:
- Test & iterate: Regularly test personalisation algorithms to ensure they deliver value & don’t alienate users with overly intrusive suggestions.
- Leverage data ethically: Be transparent about data collection & use it to enhance, not exploit, user experience.
- Implement dynamic content: Use AI to personalise content, such as product recommendations or layout adjustments, based on user behaviour.
#3 Voice & conversational interfaces
Voice interfaces are gaining traction as smart devices become integral to daily life. Next year, users will expect seamless conversational interactions, not only with virtual assistants but also within apps & websites.
Our top tips on making this work:
- Design for context: Ensure voice interactions are contextually aware, offering relevant responses based on user intent.
- Focus on clarity: Avoid overly complex language in prompts. Use concise, user-friendly phrasing for smoother interactions.
- Incorporate multimodal feedback: Combine voice, text & visual cues for a richer conversational experience.
#4 Micro-interactions with advanced animation
Micro-interactions, such as subtle hover effects or animated transitions, will become more sophisticated, enhancing usability & delighting users.
Our top tips on making this work:
- Use purposeful animations: Every animation should serve a functional purpose, such as guiding user attention or confirming actions.
- Optimise performance: Test animations for responsiveness across devices to prevent lag or performance issues.
- Be subtle: Avoid overwhelming users with flashy or excessive animations; simplicity is key.
#5 Sustainability-centric design
As users become more environmentally conscious, digital products that prioritise sustainability will resonate more deeply. UI & UX will reflect these values through energy-efficient designs & minimalistic aesthetics.
Our top tips on making this work:
- Reduce digital carbon footprint: Optimise images & code to create lightweight applications that consume less energy.
- Embrace dark mode: Offer dark mode options, which can reduce screen energy consumption on OLED devices.
- Highlight eco-friendly practices: Communicate sustainability efforts, such as energy savings or eco-friendly hosting, to build trust with users.
Staying ahead in UI & UX design means embracing innovation while keeping users at the centre of every decision.
By focusing on these emerging trends you can create experiences that are not only cutting-edge but also meaningful & impactful.
Are you considering your next web design project? Get in touch today.
