When you think of animation, what comes to mind? Saturday morning cartoons? Pixar films?
While 2D animation and traditional animation are beloved in entertainment, their power extends far beyond children’s media. Animated storytelling is a proven video marketing tool, capable of breaking down complex data, clarifying intricate concepts, and improving audience retention—all while keeping viewers engaged.
At LAI Video, we’ve seen how animation, from flat graphics or interactive elements, can transform communication. As we step into 2025, the future of animation is being shaped by cutting-edge advancements, popular animation styles, and immersive digital experiences. Here are the top animation trends in 2025—and how your organization can make the most of them.
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1. 3D Animation for Immersive Storytelling
One of the biggest 3D animation trends in 2025 is its role in immersive storytelling. As digital experiences become more interactive, virtual reality animation and augmented reality animation are taking center stage. These technologies allow brands to create lifelike experiences that transport audiences into fully realized digital worlds.
Whether used in marketing, gaming, or education, 3D animation is making content more engaging than ever. Expect to see more businesses using VR and AR animation to connect with audiences in meaningful ways.
Watch this example for Microsoft by Bark & Bite.
2. Micro-Animations for Digital Experiences
As mobile-first experiences dominate the web, mobile animation trends like micro-animations are becoming essential. These small yet impactful animations guide users, provide feedback, and enhance usability in apps and websites.
From animated buttons to dynamic text reveals, micro-animations help improve engagement and user experience. This trend is a must for brands looking to create seamless, interactive digital journeys.
Consider this example from Outcrowd for WeStud's login page.
3. Hand-Drawn Animation for a Human Touch
Despite the rise of AI and automation, stop-motion animation resurgence and hand-drawn (or cel) animations are proving that traditional methods still hold value. Their organic, artistic style lends authenticity, making them ideal for heartfelt storytelling and personal brand messaging.
Hand-drawn animation is especially relevant in animation for advertising, where brands seek a distinct, human touch to stand out in a crowded digital space.
Check out this example by Gabriella Jardine.
4. Hyper-Personalized Animation
Modern audiences expect content tailored specifically to them. Interactive animation experiences and AI-driven customization allow videos to adapt to individual preferences, making content feel personal and relevant.
This trend is particularly important in advocacy and marketing, where hyper-personalized animation can drive deeper audience engagement. As animation software continues to advance, expect to see even more dynamic, customizable animations across industries.
Watch how LAI Video helped RAINN create compelling animated visuals to connect with Gen Z and introduce themselves to a new generation.
5. AI-Assisted Animation
AI in animation is revolutionizing production, automating tedious tasks, and enabling creators to push creative boundaries. From AI-generated visual effects to automated lip-syncing and motion tracking, AI is streamlining workflows and making high-quality animation more accessible.
2025 animation trends point to AI-powered tools playing a major role in speeding up production while enhancing storytelling possibilities.
Check out this example from Gooey.AI.
6. Animation for Data Visualization
Data is at the heart of many campaigns, but raw numbers can overwhelm audiences. Animated data visualizations bring numbers to life, making them engaging and easy to digest.
With the rise of cross-platform animation, brands are using animated infographics across web, social, and video formats to communicate key insights effectively. This trend is particularly valuable for corporate reports, advocacy campaigns, and digital storytelling.
Watch this example by Fern for Overflow.
7. Seamless Integration with Live Video
Combining animation with live-action video remains a powerful storytelling tool. Whether adding animated text overlays or integrating CGI elements into real-world footage, this trending animation technique keeps content dynamic and engaging.
This approach is widely used in animation in advertising 2025, where motion graphics elevate brand messaging. It’s also gaining traction in corporate and educational videos, thanks to advances in animation software advancements that make integration seamless.
Consider this example by ILLIO for Vibram.
Why Animation Matters for Your Organization
Animation isn’t just about entertaining your audience—it’s about communicating in a way that sticks. Studies have shown that people retain information better when it’s presented visually, making animation an invaluable tool for organizations looking to break through the noise.
At LAI Video, we specialize in bringing stories to life through animation that’s tailored to your audience and goals. Whether you need a polished explainer video, a dynamic event opener, or a buzzworthy social campaign, our team ensures your animated content is impactful and aligned with the latest animation design trends in 2025.
Let's Animate Your Message
Let LAI Video help you harness the power of video animation to tell your story, engage your audience, and achieve your goals. Whether you're looking for motion graphics, 3D animations, or traditional animation, our team guides you through the animation process to create content that stands out.
Ready to elevate your video marketing strategy with cutting-edge new tech? Reach out today to explore how we can bring your vision to life.
- Email us at video@laivideo.com
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Source Credits:
1. Microsoft Planner by Bark & Bite
3. Mighty M.lkology - It's Not Milk! By Gabriella Jardine
4. LAI Video - RAINN 30 Years of Hope
5. Gooey.AI