The entertainment industry in the UK is constantly evolving, and the next few years are no different. From new technologies to shifting consumer habits, 2024 and 2025 are becoming interesting years. Whether you are involved in the industry or interested in the latest trends, this guide will walk you through what’s making waves. These are the top 7 entertainment trends to watch in the coming years.
Social Video Continues to Grow
Social media videos are taking up more and more of our time. People now spend nearly an hour daily watching videos on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter). TikTok has been a huge part of this growth, with 1.5 billion monthly users. The platform has become a place where creators can build businesses, from dropshipping to offering editing services.
Even platforms that didn’t start with videos, like Instagram and X, are now pushing video content. Reels on Instagram and a new video app from X are examples of how video is becoming central. As 5G expands, streaming videos will become even easier, making social video one of the biggest entertainment trends to follow.
AI Causes Industry-Wide Disruption
Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the way entertainment is made. Platforms like ChatGPT and Midjourney allow creators to use AI to brainstorm, write scripts, and create music or videos. These tools are making it easier to produce content quickly and efficiently.
For example, AI music tools like Google’s MusicLM can create songs based on text descriptions. In film and TV, AI is helping with storyboarding and visualizing scenes. Some people are concerned that AI will replace them in their jobs, but others think it will be another tool that helps create more work overall. Nonetheless, AI will still exist and continue to shape the industry.
Streaming Wars Start to Settle
Streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, and Disney+ have changed how we watch TV. Streaming now accounts for over a third of all TV usage. New platforms, like Apple TV+ and Paramount Plus, have tried to compete but haven’t seen the same success. This leads to consolidation, where only a few major platforms will dominate.
Consumers are sticking to big names like Netflix, which added 37 million subscribers last year. The streaming wars might be slowing down, but they’re still reshaping how we consume content. Several people are opting for streaming as their main source of entertainment.
Online Casinos Are Booming
The online casino industry in the UK has grown massively in recent years, especially as more people look for fun ways to gamble from home. This trend will likely continue in the remaining months of 2024 and 2025. Better yet, the best UK casino sites now support digital currencies, including Bitcoin. This makes them an ideal platform for users who prefer playing games like poker, blackjack, and slots anonymously.
The convenience of online casinos and the fact that you can play on your mobile device make these sites an ideal entertainment and pastime alternative. Many casinos now offer live casino games, which adds to the social aspect of playing with other live players and dealers.
Cloud Gaming Goes Mainstream
Cloud gaming is becoming a major force in the gaming world. Platforms like Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation®Plus allow users to enjoy high-quality games without expensive hardware. Instead, games are streamed from powerful servers to your device, whether a computer, phone, or smart TV.
This trend is growing because it solves the problem of expensive gaming setups. You no longer need the latest console or gaming PC to enjoy top-tier games. As more people embrace cloud gaming, it’s expected to become one of the biggest entertainment shifts in 2024 and 2025.
Podcasting Becomes a Mainstream Medium
Podcasts are now a primary way of entertainment. There are now over 2 million active podcasts, and 162 million people in the U.K. switch to podcasts once a month. What started as a hobby for many has turned into a serious business.
Podcast networks like Wondery are creating new shows and attracting significant investments. Companies like Spotify have even paid millions to bring popular shows onto their platforms. Podcasts are no longer just for fun; they’re a serious part of the entertainment world, and they’ll continue to grow in the coming years.
The Korean Wave Goes Worldwide
South Korean entertainment has been growing in popularity around the world. Known as the Korean Wave, or Hallyu, this trend includes everything from K-pop to Korean dramas. Netflix’s Squid Game was a huge hit, with over 1.85 billion hours streamed in its first release month.
K-pop bands like BTS have also gained international fame, with sold-out tours in North America. Korean food and beauty products are finding fans worldwide. The Korean Wave is not just a regional trend anymore. It’s a global phenomenon that will continue to influence entertainment in the years to come.
Conclusion
The entertainment landscape is rapidly changing, driven by technological advances and shifting audience preferences. From social video and AI to cloud gaming, these trends are reshaping how we engage with entertainment. As we move into 2025, these seven trends are worth watching, whether you’re part of the industry or just a fan. The future of entertainment is bright, and it’s moving faster than ever before.
