The Top Social Media Trends You Need to Know in 2025(Including What GaryVee Says Will Dominate)

Kim Reid
Apr 30
3 min read

The social media landscape is evolving faster than ever in 2025. Platforms are racing to integrate e-commerce, artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping content creation, and consumers are demanding more authentic and immediate experiences online.

If you're a founder, small business owner, or content creator, staying ahead of these trends isn't just helpful — it's essential.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the latest updates and insights you need to know right now:

1. Live Social Shopping Is Exploding

(Gary Vee’s #1 Prediction)

Gary Vaynerchuk ("GaryVee") recently emphasized that the "QVC-ification" of social media is the biggest trend businesses need to watch. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook are rapidly evolving into live shopping hubs, where creators and brands sell products directly through live streams.

In China, this model already generates billions of dollars — and the U.S. market is catching up fast.

Key takeaway: ➔ If you're a product-based brand, now is the time to explore live shopping features on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. Building live experiences that feel personal, interactive, and authentic will be critical for success.

2. AI Will Be Your Creative Partner, Not Your Competition

Across the board — from Meta to Snapchat — AI tools are changing how we create, distribute, and engage with content.

Gary Vee is clear: Businesses that embrace AI early will have a serious competitive edge. Platforms like Instagram are already testing AI-powered messaging tools (like "Write with Meta AI" in DMs), and TikTok is using AI to recommend live shopping content.

Key takeaway: ➔ Use AI to speed up your workflows: generate ideas, batch create, and analyze performance trends. ➔ But keep the human touch: real stories and emotional resonance still matter more than ever.

3. Platform-Specific Strategies Are Non-Negotiable

Gone are the days of copy-pasting the same post everywhere.

Gary Vee stresses that understanding each platform’s unique language is essential: TikTok rewards fast creativity, Instagram values polished storytelling, Threads focuses on quick thoughts and conversations, and LinkedIn leans into expertise and leadership.

Recent examples:

Instagram is testing "Locked Posts" (secret code–protected content) and "Monthly Recaps."
Threads is now rolling out ads globally, aiming to compete with X (formerly Twitter).

Key takeaway: ➔ Study each platform’s culture. ➔ Adapt your tone, timing, and visuals instead of posting identical content across channels.

4. Content Quality > Follower Count

Gary Vee and major platform updates agree: High-quality, authentic content now outperforms raw follower numbers.

Even small brands can go viral — or build loyal communities — if their messaging is clear, valuable, and consistent. Algorithms are prioritizing relevance, engagement, and emotional resonance over vanity metrics.

Key takeaway: ➔ Focus less on chasing followers. Focus more on creating truly valuable content for the people already paying attention.

5. New Rules Are Changing the Digital Landscape

Outside of trends, regulation is reshaping the internet:

In the U.K., Ofcom will soon enforce strict age verification and content moderation rules.
Ireland is proposing a law banning personalized algorithms for minors.
Teens in the U.S. are voicing louder concerns about mental health impacts from social media use.

Key takeaway: ➔ Transparency, safety, and user well-being are becoming brand essentials, not optional add-ons. ➔ Brands that prioritize ethical marketing and user care will build deeper, longer-lasting trust.

Final Thoughts: How You Can Stay Ahead in 2025

If you’re serious about growing your brand this year, you can’t afford to ignore these shifts.

The winning formula in 2025 will be:

✅ Embrace AI to enhance your creativity, not replace it.

✅ Master each platform's unique language.

✅ Focus on trust, transparency, and value-driven content.

✅ Experiment with live shopping if you sell products.

✅ Build your brand for endurance — not just short-term reach.

At Reid Media, we specialize in helping founders, service providers, and small businesses navigate exactly these kinds of shifts — with branding, content strategy, and digital products that are built to last.

Need help bringing your 2025 brand vision to life? Let’s chat.