The creative shifts shaping social

This month, we’re exploring the trends and tactics making waves — from interactive, touch-driven videos and playful AI-inspired formats to Instagram’s newest creative tools. We’re also breaking down why faceless storytelling keeps winning attention, and how Dunkin’s repeatable takeovers demonstrate that consistency can foster culture. 

The Trends Are in

On-Screen Touch Illusion      
This interactive trend invites viewers to “join in” by tapping, dragging, or revealing elements on screen—creating the illusion that they’re physically part of the video. It’s playful, immersive, and designed to stop the scroll.

Why it works:      
🎯 Makes audiences feel involved, not just entertained      
📱 Adds a tactile, game-like layer to short-form content      
💡 Perfect for brands that want to boost engagement through creativity      

Check out examples from @jellychat, @awwbakers_sonipat, and @tanners_kitchen.

Fake GPT      
Creators are faking ChatGPT conversations where they “ask” for advice—and the AI conveniently recommends their own product or service. It’s witty, self-aware, and instantly recognizable.

Why it works:      
💬 Familiar format that stops the scroll      
😀 Blends humour with subtle promotion      
🔥 Adaptable for any niche or brand voice      

See it in action at @dubaihillsmall and @influencyfy_team.

Social Spotlight

What’s the update?      
Instagram just dropped Restyle with AI — a new creative tool that allows you to edit photos directly in Stories using text prompts. You can add, remove, or tweak elements, select presets, and even include an “Add Yours” sticker to spark engagement.

Why we’re sharing it:

This update advances Instagram’s push towards AI-powered creativity, giving brands an easy, low-lift way to refresh visuals, experiment with new looks, and keep their content fresh and on-brand.

Content Creation 101

Faceless content is a style of social media video that connects with audiences without ever showing a face or relying on an influencer. Instead, it focuses on storytelling, visuals, voiceovers, or hands-in-frame shots to convey authenticity and emotion — letting the product and creative direction take center stage.

How to Create Faceless Content:

• Focus on movement: Use quick cuts and engaging edits to capture attention.
• Give your copy personality: Add humour and social-first language to keep it fun.
• Use trending formats: Try text message convos or lo-fi filters for a relatable feel.
• Leverage creator-first stock footage: Sites like Dupe offer clips that blend seamlessly into social.
• Repurpose on-set moments: Extend campaign reach by reusing behind-the-scenes shots for cohesive storytelling.

Case Study Roundup

Instagram’s Adam Mosseri recently shared three key ways to boost reach and build stronger audience connections.      

What to know: 

1. Have a clear intention: Reach should serve a purpose—define what you want followers to take away.
2. Create repeatable content: Recognizable formats keep audiences coming back.
3. Plan to experiment: Test often, swap what’s not working, and keep ideas fresh.

Case in Point: Dunkin’s “Spidey Donut” Takeover

Dunkin’s 2024 Spidey Donut Instagram takeover was such a hit, they brought it back in 2025—and fans loved it again. These repeatable, character-led moments build anticipation and brand familiarity.

BAM POV:

Repeatability isn’t about recycling content—it’s about creating rhythm, recognition, and moments your audience can’t wait to see return.

Key Takeaways

This month’s all about content that plays, surprises, and stays consistent, showing simple, smart ideas still win hearts and scrolls.

• Make it interactive: Let your audience touch the story.
• Keep it clever: Familiar formats, fresh twists.
• Use the tools: AI can sharpen creativity, not replace it.
• Show, don’t sell: Emotion beats perfection every time
• Repeat what works: Consistency builds anticipation — and loyalty.