Predicting the Next Viral Video Format: A Guide to Betting on Trends

Trying to predict the next viral video format that will take over the internet can be a fun challenge. While no one can know for sure what will catch fire online, there are some strategies you can use to make an informed bet on the next big viral trend. Here is a guide to betting on what video format might go viral next.

Study Past Trends and Patterns

One of the best ways to predict future viral trends is to study what has happened in the past. Look back over the last 5-10 years and make a list of the major viral video formats or platforms that have emerged. This may include things like Reaction videos, Unboxing videos, TikTok dances, etc.

Identify any patterns you notice in terms of frequency, timing, or circumstances that seem to align with new formats going viral. For example, social platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels have given rise to new viral video formats built specifically for those apps. New tech like portable cameras and phone cameras have also impacted formats. Understanding past patterns can help you spot opportunities where new viral trends may emerge.

Look for any seasonal factors as well that may correlate with spikes in certain video formats going viral. For instance, certain types of challenge or stunt videos tend to trend more in the summer, while funny bloopers and family moments often surge around the holidays. Tracking the ebbs and flows of past viral video trends throughout the year may uncover useful forecasting patterns you can extrapolate.

Keep an Eye on Up-and-Coming Platforms

Closely monitor any new social media platforms or apps that are gaining popularity. New platforms that reach critical mass often provide the perfect environment for new video formats and trends to emerge.

For example, TikTok pioneered short-form videos set to music, and Instagram Reels gave rise to cleverly edited 15-30 seconds video clips. Pay attention to user statistics and growth patterns to spot the next potential breakout platform. Getting in early with predictions around platforms like Snapchat or YouTube Shorts could pay off big.

Don’t just look at the major players though. Keep tabs on upstart apps in their initial launch phases too. Even if some of these never gain mainstream adoption, they can still provide the fertile breeding ground for new video formats before they eventually jump to a bigger platform. Spotting these niche trend origins early is key.

Follow Leading Influencers and Publishers

Keep tabs on popular YouTubers, Twitch streamers, TikTokers and other influencers across social platforms. Look for signs that some influential creators are pioneering novel video formats that seem to resonate with viewers.

These influencers often set the trends when they develop videos styles, topics and angles that people can’t get enough of. The behaviors of leading publishers like BuzzFeed and NowThis can also provide clues about formats going mainstream. If you notice certain kinds of videos popping up across influencer channels, there may be something brewing.

Pay particular attention to influencers with a track record of setting viral trends early. For example, follow YouTubers known for doing outrageous stunts and challenges to stay on top of what risky viral stunt might be on the horizon. Or watch TikTokers focused on comedy and parody for signs of new meme formats catching on. Subscribe to trendsetters within each niche community.

Consider Tech and Cultural Trends

Look at new technology, cultural shifts and current events that could lend themselves to new viral video formats. For example, the ASMR trend aligned with advances in binaural microphones and autonomous sensory meridian response research.

Or the wildly popular Mannequin Challenge trended alongside the 2016 election season in the U.S. Factor real-world contexts into your prediction process to spot fertile conditions for new trends to take off in the zeitgeist.

Think about both hardware and software advances that enable new video capabilities. Developments like higher quality phone cameras, sophisticated editing apps, augmented reality effects, and new platforms themselves expand the creative possibilities for fresh video formats.

Don’t just look at tech though. Seriously consider how socio-political movements, generational shifts and nostalgia cycles might inspire new trends. Especially analyze youth culture and countercultures closely for early signs of new video formats bubbling to the surface of the mainstream.

Reflect Current Interests and Values

Viral video formats that manage to capture a current interest or value shared by millions tend to succeed. For example, Life Hack videos became popular because they tap into people’s desire for efficiency and convenience.

Think about emerging interests, mindsets and values percolating in society right now. What kinds of videos would scratch a cultural itch or tickle a shared interest? Is there a life trend or social cause that video content could help promote? Spotting these opportunities early can lead to very savvy bets.

Pay close attention to rising search terms and hashtags reflecting developing interests. For instance, ASMR experienced early growth indicators with increased searches for things like “whisper videos” and “relaxing sound.” Similarly, keep an eye on related trends in adjacent spaces like books, music, and product sales for clues about growing interests that inspiring video formats could piggyback.

Make Some Safe Bets and Some Wildcard Picks

When trying to predict future trends, hedge your bets by choosing some formats you think are moderately likely to go viral alongside some very speculative wildcard picks.

Maybe you see potential in a format like “Unboxing at Home Date Nights” because subscription boxes and home dates are popular separately right now. But also throw some chips down on unexpected longshot guesses like “ASMR Mukbang Eating Sounds” or “Holographic Dance Challenge Videos” just in case. Having a diversified prediction portfolio ensures you don’t miss out.

Think about formats that put an innovative spin on existing popular styles to find more grounded bets. Things like “Song Lyric Prank Video Calls” or “360 Degree Magic Trick Tutorials” offer creative twists that could succeed. But also consider ideas way out in left field. Surprise formats taking existing platforms in totally new directions can gain quick momentum.

Predicting viral video formats requires research, creativity and a little luck. But by studying past trends, monitoring influencers, considering cultural contexts and setting alerts, you can make informed bets on what format might take off next. It’s fun to try predicting the internet’s next obsession!