Table Of Content
Video has taken over our lives. Think about it—we scroll TikTok for quick laughs, binge-watch YouTube tutorials to fix stuff, and stream shows that keep us glued to our couches. It’s everywhere, and it’s how we connect, learn, and chill. Back in 2022, videos made up 82% of all internet traffic.
That’s massive, and guess what? It’s only going up from here.
But what’s next? By 2025, we’ll witness a seismic shift in how video is created, consumed, and monetized.
AI-generated videos, hyper-personalized content, and immersive formats like AR and VR will dominate screens everywhere.
Therefore, as someone who’s been knee-deep in AI and digital content, I’ll break down what’s coming.
We’ll look at the trends, the tech, and how it’s all going to change the way we watch, learn, and create.
Current State of Video Consumption
Let’s start with the numbers. On average, individuals spend about 17 hours per week watching online video content, which translates to approximately 145 minutes per day.
Smartphones are the clear favorite for video consumption, making up more than 75% of views, while smart TVs and tablets are gaining traction among older demographics.
Gen Z and millennials dominate the stats, but even Gen X and Boomers are joining in, with more than 50% of adults aged 45+ consuming video content regularly.
As a result, video’s rise to dominance is no accident. YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok have leaned heavily into video-first strategies, making it the most engaging content format.
Why? Because videos convey emotions, tell stories, and simplify complex ideas all at once.
Studies show that 72% of consumers prefer watching videos to learn about products or services.
Add the boom in live-streaming and short-form content, and it’s clear video isn’t just popular—it’s necessary.
In fact, people watch videos for everything these days. According to statistics, 49.6% of internet users watch music videos regularly, making them the most popular type of video content.
Close behind are comedy, meme, and viral videos, enjoyed by 34.7% of viewers who love a quick laugh or clever content.
Live streams pull in 28.8% of audiences, providing real-time connection and interaction, while educational and how-to videos tie at 25.9%, showing just how much people rely on video to learn and solve problems
Sports highlights and clips attract 25.5% of viewers, offering a fast-paced look at their favorite games.
Product reviews (25.0%) remain a go-to for making informed purchases, and influencer content, including vlogs, grabs the attention of 23.2% of users.
Gaming culture is huge too, with 22.3% of audiences diving into playthroughs and e-sports. Moreover, while less quantified, documentaries and long-form content hold their own as valuable options for deeper storytelling and exploration.
Therefore, we can say that video content is becoming the go-to medium for entertainment, learning, and real-time connection across all age groups. All these increasing video consumption trends influence how people watch videos.
Device Preferences and Viewing Habits
Today, phones have become the go-to choice for watching videos, making up over 75% of all views.
Apps such as TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram make it effortless to catch a quick video, whether you’re on the move, standing in line, or relaxing at home.
Along with that, smart TVs and streaming gadgets like Roku and Fire Stick are gaining major popularity for watching longer videos.
People love kicking back and enjoying movies, shows, or even YouTube tutorials on a bigger screen.
Recent numbers show nearly 40% of video viewers now prefer smart TVs for binge-watching sessions.
Desktops, though, still have a place.
They’re the go-to for work-related videos or when you need to focus on something detailed, like webinars or explainer videos.
Every device has its moment to shine, and smart content creators know how to make the most of each one.
Platform-Specific Trends
With audiences craving more engaging content, platforms are stepping up with creative approaches to meet their needs.
From short, snackable clips to immersive long-form series, each platform brings its flavor, influencing how creators and viewers connect. Let’s take a closer look at how these trends are shaping the digital space.
YouTube
YouTube remains the dominant platform for diverse video content, with over 2 billion logged-in monthly users globally. Tutorials are particularly popular because people are now preferring to watch YouTube tutorials rather than reading product instructions.
Further, vlogs continue to thrive, fostering communities and creating loyal fanbases, as evidenced by more than 500 hours of new video content uploaded to YouTube each minute
Conversely, YouTube Shorts garner over 70 billion daily views, enabling users to engage with content in quick, bite-sized formats
TikTok & Short-Form Platforms
TikTok has taken the video world by storm, revolutionizing how we consume content. With over 1 billion active users, its short-form, fast-paced videos have reshaped user expectations.
The platform’s powerful algorithm keeps users engaged by continually presenting them with new, relevant content. Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts have followed suit, adopting similar strategies to cater to the growing demand for quick, attention-grabbing videos.
In fact, 82% of users watch these short clips for entertainment and therefore the ability to keep viewers hooked in the first few seconds is crucial for creators.
These platforms thrive by delivering instant gratification, with endless scrolling keeping users hooked for hours. For marketers, this highlights the need to grab attention right away, as 55% of the recommendations are not watched till the very end.
Streaming Services
Streaming video consumption continues to grow globally, with streaming accounting for 40.3% of all TV usage in June 2024.
76% of consumers watch online TV or streaming daily. On average, people spend 3 hours and 9 minutes per day streaming video.
Moreover, the demand for video streaming services is evident, as 26% of consumers have paid for a streaming service in the last month.
However, the rising cost of subscriptions has led to 52% of U.S. viewers feeling that prices are too high, contributing to a 45% cancellation rate over the past year.
In response, streaming bundles are becoming more appealing, especially among younger audiences, offering a cost-effective way to access multiple services.
Ad-supported platforms like Tubi and FreeVee are also growing as alternatives for budget-conscious viewers.
Social Media Stories & Live Streaming
Social media platforms have successfully integrated short-form, ephemeral content in the form of Stories, which disappear after 24 hours.
This quick, spontaneous content appeals to users who crave authentic glimpses into others' lives.
Instagram alone boasts over 2000 million monthly active users watching Stories, solidifying the format as a dominant feature.
Live streaming has also become a key component of engagement, with platforms like Twitch, Facebook, and Instagram seeing massive growth.
On Twitch, for example, approximately 35 million daily active users watch gaming streams and live events daily.
Moreover, live streaming offers a real-time, interactive experience that helps creators build deeper connections with their audiences, whether through Q&A sessions, virtual events, or gaming broadcasts.
Content Format Preferences
As we approach 2025, video consumption is rapidly evolving. Short, engaging content is in high demand, while long-form content continues to maintain its relevance.
Let’s dive into the most dominant content format preferences.
Short-Form vs. Long-Form
I still remember the first time I got hooked on short-form videos.
It was a late night, and I stumbled onto TikTok. Suddenly, hours had flown by, and I’d gone from laughing at pet videos to learning how to fix a sink.
Short-form videos, like those on TikTok and Instagram Reels, dominate because they’re quick, fun, and easy to digest. They fit perfectly into busy schedules and short attention spans.
However, It's surprising that 70% of Gen Zs watch full-length television content weekly, almost keeping pace with the 80% who view short-form videos at the same rate.
Moreover, long-form content provides value that viewers seek when they want to learn or immerse themselves fully.
YouTube, for instance, remains the go-to platform for everything from tutorials to documentaries, boasting more than 2 billion monthly users who watch videos ranging from a few minutes to several hours.
Personally, I’ve noticed that the shift towards short-form content is often tied to the platform. On TikTok, the user behavior is more about entertainment and browsing.
While on YouTube, users are actively looking for value-driven content—whether that’s how-to videos, deep dives, or even web series.
Live vs. On-Demand
Live streaming is surging in popularity, but on-demand video isn’t going anywhere.
Their immediacy of live streaming is a big draw, especially for gaming, live events, and Q&A sessions. Nielsen reports that 61% of U.S. viewers now watch live-streamed content regularly.
But let’s not forget the appeal of on-demand content. It’s all about convenience and lets viewers watch when and where they want.
For marketers, it’s important to balance both. Live content creates urgency, while on-demand lets viewers watch again and again. I’ve seen brands thrive by offering live webinars for engagement and on-demand tutorials for convenience.
Netflix and Disney+ have perfected on-demand with binge-worthy series that keep viewers hooked. At the same time, live sports broadcasts show that live video still delivers unmatched real-time excitement.
User-Generated Content
User-generated content has become a goldmine for engagement and authenticity in 2025.
Consumers trust content that feels real and relatable, which is why UGC has exploded on TikTok and Instagram.
In fact, a significant portion of consumers believe that UGC highly impacts their purchasing decisions.
As a content creator myself, I can tell you that nothing drives engagement like a genuine review or a personal story shared by a customer or fan.
Vertical Video Format
If you’re not already using vertical video, now’s the time to jump on board.
With the rise of mobile-first platforms like TikTok, Instagram Stories, and Snapchat, vertical video has become the norm.
It’s a simple but powerful shift that speaks volumes about where attention is heading.
In 2025, more than 75% of all video content is expected to be viewed on mobile devices, and vertical video is at the center of this movement.
This format is more engaging, with higher interaction rates thus making it a must for any content strategy targeting mobile users.
Demographic Insights on Video Consumption
Video consumption is influenced by factors like age, region, and gender, each shaping how people engage with content.
From my experience, understanding these patterns is essential for marketers and content creators to craft targeted strategies.
Therefore, I’ve shared insights on how different age groups prefer different types of video content, why regional trends matter in platform popularity, and how gender influences content choice.
Age-Based Preferences
Video consumption preferences vary significantly across different age groups.
- Gen Z (ages 9-24) has a strong preference for short-form, mobile-first content, primarily on TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Instagram Reels. They prefer quick, visually engaging videos, often with music or humor.
- Millennials (ages 25-40), while also drawn to short-form content, are more likely to watch longer videos, particularly on YouTube or streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu, where they engage with documentaries, series, and tutorials.
- Gen X (ages 41-56) still enjoys traditional TV but is shifting towards streaming services, with a focus on dramas, sports, and news.
- Baby Boomers (ages 57-75) remain loyal to linear TV for news and entertainment but have slowly adopted YouTube for educational content and Netflix for on-demand movies and series.
These generational trends highlight varying content consumption preferences based on the type, format, and platform of the video
Regional Trends
The way people consume video content really varies depending on where they live.
In North America, streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ dominate, with people leaning into on-demand viewing.
In my experience, binge-watching a whole season of a show in one go is almost a weekend ritual.
Meanwhile, in Asia, mobile-first platforms are the go-to. For instance, 72% of people in Thailand watch videos on mobile devices, contrasting sharply with only 41% in the U.S.
It’s fascinating how these regions embrace short, highly engaging videos that are optimized for phones.
In Europe, I’ve seen a more balanced approach, with people mixing traditional TV and streaming.
Latin America and Africa, on the other hand, are embracing mobile video consumption, often watching content on their phones due to high mobile penetration and limited access to traditional TV.
The content preferences differ too, with some regions leaning towards comedy, while others enjoy drama or sports.
Gender-Based Consumption Trends
When it comes to gender-based consumption trends, the divide is becoming less rigid but still noticeable.
Women tend to watch more lifestyle content, like cooking shows, beauty tutorials, and health-related videos. As a content creator myself, I’ve found that content in these genres does particularly well on platforms like YouTube and Instagram.
Men, on the other hand, are more inclined to watch sports, gaming content, and tech reviews. I’ve observed this shift firsthand in the way my male friends tune into Twitch for gaming streams or check out YouTube channels dedicated to gadget reviews.
But it's not all separate—more and more, both genders are crossing over and watching content outside traditional interests. It’s an exciting trend as audiences embrace a wider range of content, blurring the lines between categories.
Technologies in Video Consumption
As someone who’s seen firsthand how AI can predict what you’ll love next, or how AR can bring products to life in a video, it’s clear that these innovations are opening up huge opportunities for content creators and marketers. Let’s dive into the tech driving these changes.
AI-Driven Video Content
AI is revolutionizing video content creation and recommendation. I’ve used AI tools to enhance video production, cutting down editing time while improving the final result.
YouTube and Netflix are using AI to personalize recommendations which makes it easier to discover videos that suit your taste.
On the production side, AI is helping creators by automating repetition and letting them focus on the more creative aspects of video-making.
A standout example? Zebracat text-to-video converter enables creators to create videos from their ideas within minutes.
Imagine writing a blog post in the morning and sharing a polished video version by lunchtime—that’s the future of efficient content marketing.
Augmented Reality (AR) & Virtual Reality (VR)
I’ve been captivated by the potential of AR and VR in transforming video content.
For instance, I recently tried out a VR concert, and it was like nothing I’ve ever experienced—it felt like I was right there, in the front row. AR, while more accessible, is also becoming a big deal.
Snapchat and Instagram are introducing filters that overlay virtual objects into real-world scenes. As a content creator, I’ve seen how interactive AR elements make videos more immersive which leads to higher engagement rates.
Further, these technologies will soon be standard in everything from virtual tourism to training simulations and, of course, interactive video content.
Live 360-Degree and 3D Videos
I’ve experimented with live 360-degree videos, and they’re a game-changer. It’s one thing to watch a video, but being able to look around while watching a live event or concert? That’s a whole new level of immersion.
Similarly, 3D videos are growing in popularity, especially in gaming and VR. I’ve spent hours in VR games where the 3D world surrounds me, and I’m beginning to see how brands could use 3D video for better product demos and virtual try-ons.
As technology advances, expect 360-degree and 3D video to become the norm for live streaming, especially in high-end content like gaming and sports.
Improved Streaming Quality (4K, 8K, HDR)
Quality matters, and consumers are increasingly expecting nothing less than perfection. 4K and HDR streaming are now table stakes for platforms like Netflix and Disney+.
Meanwhile, 8K adoption is on the horizon, fueled by advances in internet speed and display technology.
However, here’s a contrarian thought: Is all this resolution overkill for mobile screens? With more than 75% of video content consumed on phones, many users can’t discern the difference between 1080p and 4K.
Video Consumption Trends by Industry
Video is quickly becoming a core part of nearly every industry. From eCommerce to gaming to healthcare, and news and media, video’s ability to engage and educate is driving growth across the board.
Let’s look at how different industries are embracing video.
eCommerce
Video has revolutionized eCommerce. As a business owner, I’ve seen how product videos boost conversions. 73% of consumers are more likely to buy after watching a product video.
Adding demo videos to my site led to a noticeable sales spike.
Lifestyle videos, showing products in real-world use, have an even bigger impact. With shoppable videos on platforms like Instagram, customers can buy directly from the video, streamlining the shopping experience.
News and Media
Video is taking over the news industry. Younger audiences are shifting from traditional TV to YouTube and Instagram for news updates.
Studies show that news stories with video have 10 times more shares than text-only content.
Video not only makes stories more digestible but also creates a stronger emotional connection with viewers, building trust and engagement.
Gaming
Gaming has long been a video-driven industry, but Twitch and YouTube Gaming have turned gaming into a spectator sport.
Over 240 million people tune into Twitch monthly, with game trailers, teasers, and live streams building anticipation and community around new releases.
This trend is expanding as developers use live streaming to interact directly with fans, creating a more connected gaming community.
Healthcare and Wellness
Video is changing healthcare and wellness. Telemedicine surged during the pandemic, and video calls have made healthcare more accessible and efficient.
In wellness, I follow YouTube influencers who share fitness routines and wellness tips—videos that feel personal and actionable.
The trend will likely continue as healthcare providers and wellness brands embrace video for more direct, interactive engagement.
Other Industries
Industries like education, real estate, and finance are also embracing video. Education platforms like MasterClass use videos to deliver immersive learning experiences.
Real estate agents offer virtual tours, and finance companies use explainer videos to simplify complex topics.
Therefore, video is breaking barriers and engaging audiences in a more effective, personal way.
Marketing Trends in Video Advertising
Video is not just changing how we consume content—it’s reshaping the way brands connect with their audiences.
Let’s dive into the major trends in video advertising that are transforming the marketing sector.
Growth of Video Ads
Video ads are booming. I’ve seen firsthand how targeted video ads increase engagement and drive conversions. Video offers emotional appeal and product demos that still images can’t match.
With YouTube and Facebook driving growth, short-form video ads have the highest engagement rates, making video an essential marketing tool.
Influencer Marketing
Influencer marketing through video has become a powerhouse. I’ve worked with influencers on YouTube and Instagram, and their authenticity drives engagement.
Now consumers trust influencers more than traditional ads. Micro-influencers, in particular, have smaller but highly engaged audiences, making them a great investment for brands looking for better ROI.
Shoppable Video
Shoppable videos can lead to a 9x increase in purchase intent, demonstrating their powerful influence on consumer behavior.
Instagram and YouTube allow consumers to buy directly from videos.
I’ve seen how powerful this is, especially in fashion and beauty, and this trend will keep growing as platforms refine their shoppable features.
Brand Storytelling
Brand storytelling through video builds deeper connections with audiences. Instead of just selling a product, video allows brands to share their story and values.
I’ve seen brands like Nike and Apple create emotional narratives that resonate with their audience.
Whether through customer stories or behind-the-scenes looks, video storytelling creates a lasting impact and drives brand loyalty.
The Future of Video – Are You Ready to Lead?
Video no longer means entertainment—it’s the foundation of how we learn, connect, and even shop.
The question is: how will you adapt to lead in this rapidly evolving space?
With platforms diversifying, technology advancing, and consumer preferences shifting, the opportunity for creators, brands, and marketers has never been greater.
Imagine turning your ideas into engaging videos within minutes. This is exactly what tools like Zebracat make possible.
From blog-to-video conversions to text-to-video creation, Zebracat streamlines your workflow and lets you produce high-quality content effortlessly.
No matter whether you’re a marketer targeting specific demographics, a brand diving into AR/VR, or a creator riding the wave of UGC, this is your time to shine.
Don’t just consume the trends—shape them.
Embrace the future of video with Zebracat and take your content to the next level. The possibilities are endless, and it’s up to you to make them a reality.
Create videos 10x faster and easier with Zebracat
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