So many aspects of our lives that once required going out and in-person interactions can now be carried out online. From entertainment and shopping to information gathering and business transactions, we are reliant on the internet for so many services.
In 2023, we have seen certain online activities emerge as hot trends. These are just a few that are particularly popular right now:
Watching videos
Video content is now one of the most consumed types of content online with research suggesting that there are now around 4.5 billion internet users consuming video content. Part of this trend’s growth is centred around the use of social media video app TikTok, however users have been watching content on YouTube and other social sites for years.
But what types of videos are popular? Viral meme and comedy videos are now enjoyed by users across the generations, as are online tutorials, sports highlights, product reviews and video live streams.
Recording video content is now even a career option for some. Successful online influencers can earn a living from promotional content with brands and through advertisement revenue. Top influencers making video content in 2023 include Charlie D’Amelio, Dominik Lipa, Josh Richards and Jojo Siwa.
Online casino gaming and live streaming
Over the last decade, online gambling and online casino games have exploded in popularity. Players enjoy the convenience of playing at home with the vast array of choice and features that internet based casinos have to offer.
In 2023, mobile casino gaming is a growing trend and smartphone ownership continues to rise. More casino brands are working to optimise their platforms for mobile screens and are even offering mobile app exclusive bonuses and content.
Live dealer games are also being played more this year. These games enable the player to interact with a dealer in real-time, like they would in a land based casino, through live video streaming.
We can also expect the use of virtual reality (VR) in casino gaming to continue this year. VR casinos are a more immersive experience and as close as you can get to the real in-person experience you have at a physical venue.
While there are very few online casinos that incorporate VR into their games at present, numbers are slowly growing as more invest in VR technology.
Searching for a new home
Some online trends have emerged in recent years as a consequence of lockdown restrictions during the pandemic. When it wasn’t possible for new home buyers to visit potential properties in person, real estate agents began to offer virtual viewings and even drone footage of properties for sale.
Now, you can complete almost the entire process of finding, buying and financing a new home online. Through property websites and apps, you can learn more about an area and view properties for sale.
You can also find mortgage deals, utilise online conveyancer services and complete legal documents through online portals. By completing these online the process becomes much easier and more streamlined.
It will be interesting to see how new technology will improve the home buying process even further in the months and years ahead. It is unlucky we will see a complete return to the pre-pandemic ways anytime soon.
Buying and selling second hand
Buying and selling second hand items online isn’t a new concept, the online marketplace ebay first made this popular in the late 1990s and early 2000s. However, in recent years more online marketplaces have emerged and demand has skyrocketed.
Research shows that one third of all consumers are looking for pre-owned items when they are shopping online. Also 44 percent of surveyed consumers have either bought or sold something second hand online over the last 12 months.
Facebook marketplace and apps like Vinted and Depop have become the go-to place for buyers and sellers looking for great deals. Buying second hand is also good for the planet as it reduces waste, a concern for many now as environmental awareness grows.
Online education
Lastly, using the internet for educational resources and programs is on the rise this year. More students are choosing remote learning and online courses over attending in-person institutions.
The benefits include reduced fees, no commuting costs and a greater selection of courses. Online learning helps students to balance their other commitments like work and family with their education.
