Sébastien Naum, co-founder of Upgrade to Global Agency has 15 years of experience in digital marketing and has generated over $500 million for clients.
Hi guys, my name is Sebastian, a human being and a marketer who has no choice but to learn, think and adapt to the hottest digital and machine learning trends . Spoiler alert: no matter how insane and mind-blowing all of today’s new technologies are, we are still needed! (phew).
Now that we can all breathe, let’s take a look at why it’s imperative for brands looking to capture and hold their audience’s attention to stay ahead of the curve. As we enter 2024, several emerging trends are reshaping the way brands interact with consumers, leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), and human-generated imagery. computer (CGI).
In this article, I will explore how these innovative tools are revolutionizing marketing strategies. Let’s start with the one we’ve heard the most about.
AI-driven personalization
Artificial intelligence has been a game-changer in marketing, providing unprecedented opportunities for personalized engagement at scale. Scale is key here. AI-powered algorithms are revolutionizing the way brands analyze consumer data, predict preferences, and tailor content to individual tastes. By leveraging machine learning and natural language processing, marketers can deliver hyper-targeted messages that resonate personally with audiences.
One of the most important applications of AI in marketing is the use of chatbots. By integrating these intelligent virtual assistants into their websites and messaging platforms, brands can improve customer experience, drive conversions and streamline operations. Additionally, chatbots are a huge tool for brands to collect more valuable data. You can almost think of chatbot conversations as surveys running around the clock for you, recording consumer information.
Additionally, AI-powered content recommendation engines enable brands to deliver relevant and engaging content to their target audiences. By analyzing user behavior and preferences, these algorithms can surface personalized recommendations across various digital channels, from social media feeds to email newsletters. This targeted approach not only increases engagement but also fosters brand loyalty by providing value-driven content tailored to individual interests.
Now let’s get to the fun stuff.
Augmented reality: transforming consumer experiences
Augmented reality is another transformative technology that will reshape the marketing landscape in 2024. By overlaying digital elements on the physical world, AR allows brands to create immersive and interactive experiences that captivate.
With the rise of virtual try-on experiences and interactive product visualization tools, buyers can now preview products in their own environment before making a purchase. Wondering what a new rug might look like in your living room? AR can help. Want to virtually “try on” a piece of clothing? AR can do this too. Technology is helping to bridge the gap between the virtual and real world so customers can feel more confident before purchasing. Subsequently, this also helps reduce the number of returns. I admit that this one is not yet perfect. There’s nothing like the real thing, but it’s a huge upgrade from a simple 10-angle product photo.
Additionally, augmented reality-based ad campaigns create memorable brand experiences that eliminate the clutter of traditional marketing channels.
By leveraging AR filters, games and interactive storytelling, brands can engage audiences in a fun and immersive way, building brand awareness and fostering those much-desired emotional connections.
The evolution of CGI in marketing campaigns
Have you seen some of those computer-generated image (CGI) videos that are going viral?! The first time I saw a viral CGI post on social media, I actually thought Jacquemus’ wheeled bags had stopped traffic in Paris. Now, I’m not a bag enthusiast, but this legitimately made me want a croissant and coffee at a streetside cafe in Paris. (Well, without the cigarette smoke in my face – insert laughing emoji with a bead of sweat.)
In 2024, CGI is pushing the boundaries of creativity in marketing campaigns, blurring the line between reality and fantasy. Thanks to advancements in CGI technology, brands can create visually stunning and hyper-realistic content that captivates audiences and leaves a lasting impression like it did for me.
When it comes to influencer marketing, CGI is also revolutionizing this area, allowing brands to create digital avatars and virtual spokespersons to represent their products and services. These CGI influencers provide a level of control and flexibility that traditional influencers cannot match, allowing brands to create tailored messages and maintain brand consistency across all touchpoints. While incredibly fun to see and easier to “manage,” these brand-promoting avatars are still not quite like humans creating authentic content for your brand. Who will you trust more: a CGI avatar or your favorite health influencer telling you the results of their favorite grass-fed collagen supplement that they’ve tested over the past three months and sharing actual results before and After ?
From realistic product renderings to immersive virtual environments, CGI allows brands to present their offerings in new and compelling ways, from creating 3D animations for social media ads to developing interactive experiences for virtual events.
Navigating the Future of Digital Marketing
The convergence of AI, AR and CGI represents a paradigm shift in marketing, providing unlimited possibilities for creativity, innovation and customer engagement. By adopting these technologies and harnessing their power to tell compelling stories and deliver personalized experiences, brands can unlock new opportunities for growth and differentiation in an ever-changing digital landscape.
However, it is essential to approach these tools with a strategic mind and human creativity, focusing on providing value and relevance to consumers rather than simply following the latest trends. I will repeat it because I sincerely believe that this Never change: Delivering value, whether in the form of entertainment, education or inspiration, will always be more important than the technology in which it is delivered.
Now go have a creative day, my human friend.
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