Top 7 Trends To Follow on Instagram In 2024

"Add Yours" story, collaborative posts, creator-inspired content, broadcast channels, etc. are just a few top Instagram trends that blazed through 2023. But As we are in 2024, we have to look into the next wave of Instagram trends.

But why, you ask? In this digital age, where Instagram has become a global stage for personal expression, brand promotion, and cultural discourse, keeping an eye on its trends is not just about staying trendy anymore, it's about staying relevant.

These trends have the power to influence the look of our profiles, the content we create, and even the way we interact with the broader community. They also provide a window into the hearts of the followers.

Simply put, knowing the current trends on Instagram is like having a secret key that unlocks the doors of engagement, influence, and digital success. It's the cornerstone of creating a meaningful online presence. And, if you have a personal brand to promote, staying ahead of the curve is essential.

So, in this article, I'll unveil the top 7 trends to watch out for this year. It’s time to become a trendsetter, not just a follower!

1. AI Revolution

It’s no secret that in 2024, one of the most notable and influential trends on Instagram will be the widespread adoption of AI-generated content. Artificial Intelligence will revolutionize the way we create, consume, and engage with people on Instagram. 

Photo by Steve Johnson on Unsplash

It all started with the launch of ChatGPT on November 30, 2022. And in just five days, it garnered one million users, a feat that Instagram took 2.5 months to achieve. The number alone tells the story. But how will AI help with content creation on Instagram, you may wonder!

Well, have you ever had trouble coming up with engaging captions for your vacation photos? AI's got your back! With the help of AI chatbots like ChatGPT, Bard, and Meta’s own Llama, you can create captivating captions. 

Best part? With just a single command, you can compile a list of such wonderful captions. Wizardry? You can say!

But that’s not all. You can also generate wonderful artwork, videos, and music with the help of AI-powered tools like Midjourney, Synthesia, AIVA, DALL·E, etc. Whether you're into influencer marketing or just trying to promote your own brand, these AI-powered tools can save you time and money.

2. Challenges Unleashed

In 2024, the Insta-landscape is sure to be shaped by the influence of challenges.

These challenges originally came from TikTok. From dance crazes to lip-sync battles, TikTok challenges have not only defined the platform but also changed the way users interact with and engage in social media.

From high schoolers to trendy grandmas, everyone was swept up by these challenges.

Image from @danny_run

But with a nationwide ban in India and harsh limitations in the United States, and numerous other countries, TikTok was losing users left and right. Naturally, for many users, Instagram became their new home. And with them came the challenges!

So, in 2024, expect to see a surge in Instagram Reels and Stories featuring users attempting TikTok-style challenges. The format may differ slightly, but the essence of these challenges will remain the same - fun, creativity, and the thrill of going viral!

And, if you want to trend on Instagram without spending tons on marketing, try engaging with your followers through these challenges. Join challenges that match your brand's style. But don't just copy them; put your own spin on them!

3. Reel-ing Them In

Let’s talk Instagram Reels now.

It was launched in August 2020 to compete with TikTok, the OG short-form video platform known for its viral videos. These short-form videos have been on the rise for years, entertaining audiences with bite-size addicting content. 

Image from @NASA

And, it's not only Instagram getting in on the action; even YouTube has its versions of it. But Instagram Reels is a hit because it lets you combine videos and photos, add cool filters, AR effects, music, and even speed things up or slow them down!

Not to mention, Instagram Reels will be great for influencer marketing in 2024 because short videos have a higher chance of going viral. In fact, 47% of marketing wizards think so. 

Reels are the future, as 87% of marketers who use short videos plan to spend the same amount or more on them this year. And, every day, over 140 billion Reels are watched on Instagram and Facebook. 

So, if you have a personal brand, reels are a great way to show off your products and share your brand's story authentically. Remember, 90% of people like watching short videos to learn about products or services. 
To engage more audience with your reels, share them as story. Don't forget to keep an eye on your competitor's highlights to not miss out anything that's going on in your industry.

4. Going Live

Whether you love watching videos on Twitch or just doom-scroll through your phone all day, you've likely seen live videos here and there. They're kind of everywhere these days. Globally, about 41%, have said they have enjoyed live-stream videos. 

Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels

Now, Instagram Live is not a new Instagram feature and has been around since 2016. However, in 2024, it won’t just be a feature; it'll be a way of life.

But why is it becoming a sensation now? Well, it's all about the authenticity, the unfiltered realness, and the immediacy of interaction with your audience! 

Think about it! In an age where AI filters and dank edits flood people’s feeds, Instagram Live offers a refreshing dose of reality. No retakes, no fancy lighting, just you, raw and unfiltered.

And you don’t even have to worry about matching up against the big guns. Most followers don't care about fancy sets or professional equipment. They want YOU! Going Live is your ticket to engage with them on a personal level.

5. Insta Shopping

Gone are the days when social media was just for sharing photos of your cat. Nowadays, social commerce is all the rage here.

Each social media platform has its own unique marketplace where brands, creators, and users come together to shop and connect. Facebook has its Marketplace and Instagram had the Shop tab. However, it was removed from the home screen last year for better user experience.

But don't worry, you can still shop from reels, stories, feed, explore, and ads. Insta shopping is quite a popular option among “shop till you drop” people.

Image from @atacadobrasmoda

In the Instagram Trends Research Study, 44% of people said they shop on Instagram every week. As it lets you easily show your products to your followers and sell them right in the app, it has become the go-to app for larger and smaller brands alike. And, In 2024, this Instagram trend will blow up more. 

Now, I’m not spit balling here. Social commerce is expected to reach pass $100 billion in the US by 2025. And, Instagram will definitely be among the top trending.

6. New Forms of Content: AR, Podcast & Avatars

In this era of reinvention, where old content just won't cut it, Instagram stands as the ultimate playground for the avant-garde. Instagram in 2024 will be all about virtual content that resonates with the younger crowd. I’m talking AR-enhanced photos, AI-generated stuff, and digital avatars!

Image from @lens.list

Instagram's AR filters are now a major hit, offering businesses and creators a fun and engaging way to connect with their followers. For small business owners, these AR ads could be the golden ticket.

A study of 10 brands' Facebook ads revealed that combining AR ads with regular ones outperformed solo campaigns, boosting brand lift nearly threefold, all while cutting awareness campaign costs by 59%.

But perhaps the most intriguing trend on Instagram is the rise of digital avatars. Thanks to the Instagram Trend Report of 2023, we now know that over half of Gen Z social media users are ditching traditional fashion magazines for digital avatars and influencers.

7. Meme-orable Moments

Who doesn't like a good meme? According to a YPulse study, a whopping 75% of those aged 13-36 are sharing memes. And, in 2024, Instagram will be riding the meme wave like never before.

Image from @netflix

Not to mention, in the world of influencer marketing on Instagram, memes have become a secret weapon. Savvy influencers are now using memes to connect with their audience in hilarious and relatable ways. Even the corporate bigwigs have joined the meme party.

But hold on, there's more! Instagram's newest trend is video memes. With the rise of Reels, short meme videos are taking over the ‘Gram.

It's not just fresh user-generated content; goofy movie and show edits with wacky captions and goofy tunes are also on the rise!

Conclusion

These seven trends are your guiding stars to Instagram stardom in 2024. From AR enhancements to AI-driven content, the top trending in this vibrant platform will be nothing short of spectacular. But, remember, while these trends on Instagram may be short-lived, your creativity is timeless. So, embrace the wave, ride it, and don't be afraid to make a big splash!