The Verge has collaborated with Vox Media’s research team to explore how social media communities might evolve, delivering insights that are both predictable and compelling.
Based on their findings, here’s what the future holds.
Major social networks are losing user trust, prompting people to seek connection elsewhere — through AI chatbots, niche communities, and even TikTok.
Users crave authentic engagement and shared values, and they’re willing to pay for it. This shift reflects a desire for meaningful interactions over the shallow scrolls of traditional platforms.
Niche communities thrive on their small, focused scale. Once the focus shifts to mass growth, users lose interest, feeling the original purpose dilutes.
Key reasons for leaving include negative atmospheres, low engagement, or simply losing passion for the topic, highlighting the fragility of these spaces.
Content emerges as the lifeblood of communities, uniting members—even passive lurkers who just observe without joining discussions. For many, this passive connection is enough to feel part of the “club.”
Brands are also expected to step up, creating their own communities. However, the bar is high: they’ll need to deliver quality content, exclusive perks, and robust sponsorship programs to win over users.
Finally, there’s a clear backlash against excessive AI use. While automation has its place, the research suggests avoiding a full handover to neural networks in the near future, preserving space for human touch to maintain authenticity.
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These trends point to a future where intimacy, content, and human connection will redefine social media, challenging platforms and brands to adapt or fade.
