Today, in front of a packed audience at The British Library in central London, we presented our social media predictions for 2026. It’s our 13th year hosting an annual event, and whether you were there or not, you can now get the latest report to help you plan for the year ahead in social.

From the emergence of Gen Alpha whose elders are turning 16, to the double-edged sword of online virality, to the rise of AI influencers, and the decline of trend-chasing, there’s something that everyone can take away and plan for in 2026. 

Our findings all have a common red thread: the need for brands to accept they can no longer control the narrative. Those who embrace authenticity, community, and richer long-form content on social media stand to build more meaningful, longer-lasting connections with audiences old and new.

Here’s a look at what you can expect from each trend in our new report…

1. Gen Alpha

The oldest members of the next generation of social media users, Gen Alpha, will turn 16 next year. As they emerge in the world of work, how will their social media habits shape the mainstream, and what are their views on their relationships with social media and AI? After a year spent working with some of this demographic, and learning a lot in the process, Battenhall takes a look at what the future holds with Gen Alpha at the helm.

2. Crowd control

Virality is a ‘double-edged sword’ with brands operating in a climate of heightened sensitivity; one wrong step can trigger a major campaign backlash. This loss of control is the new normal, meaning brands should anticipate reinterpretation and be ready to respond quickly. Success also depends on judging how far a brand can push for awareness without undermining trust. 

3. Faces of the future

AI personas are redefining influencer marketing. These digital accounts can provide cheaper marketing, 24/7 availability, message consistency and brand control – but at what cost? Nearly two-thirds of marketing professionals plan to use AI and machine learning in this space, but while 37% of consumers show greater interest in brands that use AI, an equal number say they wouldn’t trust a brand that used them. The key challenge, then, is blending human and AI voices to enrich storytelling while preserving genuine connection, as AI influencers cannot replace the emotional authenticity of human creators.   

4. The social cycle

 As social media as a term enters its 20th anniversary year, we’re seeing old features, formats, and trends re-emerge. From the nostalgic Facebook ‘poke’ to long-form content and blogs on the likes of Substack or LinkedIn, old habits are proving influential in contemporary marketing strategies. How can brands and marketers stand out from the crowd in 2026 and be an authentic voice for their target audiences?

5. The end of the trend?

Audiences are growing bored of ‘cringe’ brand participation in short-lived viral moments. Success in 2026 will shift from chasing trends to creating stories that matter. The pendulum is swinging back to long-form, serialised content across platforms like YouTube and Substack. This approach keeps audiences returning, boosts algorithm metrics, and enables brands to build depth, loyalty and values-driven narratives. Brands should use trends ‘sparingly and intentionally’ while investing in long-form strategies.

Our Year Ahead in Social Trends Report can be downloaded here. We’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback - email hello@battenhall.com.