What's Next in Advertising? 2025 Trends to Watch
The advertising world is always evolving, but 2025 feels like a turning point. With new technology, changing consumer habits, and a growing demand for authenticity, the industry is shifting fast. I’ve seen big moves toward smarter, more personalized, and more immersive ad experiences.
From artificial intelligence taking over ad creation to AR and VR changing how we shop, this year’s trends are shaping the future of marketing in real-time. If you’re in the industry, or just curious about where things are headed, here’s a look at the top ad trends to keep an eye on in 2025.
1. AI
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is everywhere. AI in advertising now means using machine learning to predict what customers want before they even know it.
Take Netflix, for example. Depending on what you've watched, the show/movie previews will change. That’s their AI personalization. Brands are now using this same strategy to deliver custom ads based on your habits, interests, and even what it picks up on as your mood.
According to the Digital Marketing Institute in their article “What are the Digital Marketing Trends for 2025?”, AI is helping marketers save time and money by automating content creation and improving targeting accuracy. Basically, AI is making ads that actually speak to you.
2. AR and VR
Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are turning ads into experiences. Instead of just seeing a product, now you can try it out in your space.
Let’s say you’re shopping for new glasses. With AR, you can see how the frames look on your face using your phone. Want to test out a new couch? IKEA’s app lets you place furniture in your living room virtually. That’s the future of marketing and advertising: having online based shopping feel more like real life.
In “8 Mega-Trends That Matter For Marketing In 2025” by Martin Kihn, he points out that immersive content like this boosts engagement and trust. People are more likely to buy when they feel like they’ve already “experienced” the product.
3. Personalized Marketing
2025 is all about the “me” experience. Consumers are done with one-size-fits-all ads. They want messages that feel tailored to them. Not their neighbor, not their cousin, just them.
Think Spotify Wrapped. It’s fun, it's specific, and it's shareable. Now imagine every brand offering that kind of personal touch. According to Deloitte’s article “2025 Digital Media Trends: Social platforms are becoming a dominant force in media and entertainment”, more people expect brands to “know them” and serve up content that fits their lifestyle and preferences.
Brands are collecting smarter data (ethically, I hope) to build stronger connections and earn loyalty.
4. Brand Strategy
Traditional ads are out. People want purpose-driven content. They want to see brands supporting social causes, being transparent, and standing for something real.
Companies are shifting their strategies to build communities, not just sell products. Think of how Nike supports athletes' voices or how Patagonia pushes for environmental change. In 2025 it's about selling what your company stands for in addition to a product.
Final Thoughts
The future of advertising lies in brands connecting better with their audience and providing them accessibility. Whether it’s through AI in advertising, AR experiences, or hyper-personalized messages, advertising trends in 2025 are about meaningful interactions.
If you’re in this industry, or just an observer, keep your eyes on these ad trends because they’re shaping the future of how consumers discover, experience, and connect with brands.
References
Deloitte. (2025, March 25). 2025 digital media trends: Social platforms are becoming a dominant force in media and entertainment. Deloitte Insights. https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/insights/industry/technology/digital-media-trends-consumption-habits-survey/2025.html
DMI, S. @. (2025, February 20). What are the Digital Marketing Trends for 2025?. Digital Marketing Institute. https://digitalmarketinginstitute.com/blog/digital-marketing-trends-2025
Kihn, M. (2025, January 2). 8 mega-trends that matter for marketing in 2025. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbescommunicationscouncil/2025/01/02/8-mega-trends-that-matter-for-marketing-in-2025/
