2026 Digital Marketing Strategy Insights and Trends

Mapping Your 2026 Digital Marketing Strategy

Are you getting ready to set your digital marketing plans for 2026? Digital analytics provider DoubleVerify has released a new series of “Global Insights” reports. These reports include feedback from over 22,000 consumers and nearly 2,000 marketers. They cover topics like social media, AI, online shopping, and more. This information can help you decide which platforms and strategies to focus on in the coming years.

Popular Social Media Platforms

Consumer Preferences in Social Media Usage

The report highlights the most popular social media platforms. YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram are at the top of the list. TikTok, X, LinkedIn, and Pinterest follow behind. This matches findings from Pew Research about social media usage. However, there’s a key detail missing. It seems the report doesn’t fully capture how much time users spend on these apps. While many check Facebook for updates, they might spend longer on other platforms.

Interestingly, Threads and Bluesky were not included in DoubleVerify’s options for social platforms.

Social Media for News Consumption

How Different Age Groups Use Social Media for News

The report also examines how people use social media to get news. Younger users tend to rely on social media for updates. In contrast, older users still prefer traditional TV news and dedicated news websites. So, next time you see an old celebrity in a new TV show, remember that the audience for that show is likely older.

Product Research on Social Platforms

Influencers and Their Impact on Purchase Decisions

Another important point from the report is how consumers use social media for product research. It notes the growing influence of social media influencers on buying choices. Over 58% of consumers interact with influencers, especially micro-influencers, who have a more personal touch. This interaction is strong; 54% say influencers affect their purchase decisions.

“More people are turning to influencers to learn about products,” a consumer noted, highlighting the shift in how people shop.

Growth of Social Commerce

Adoption Trends in Different Markets

The rise of social commerce is another key finding. This trend is growing, especially in Asian markets. Consumers there seem to prefer using social media for shopping. Western consumers, on the other hand, often use different apps for different tasks instead of integrated shopping experiences. The reasons behind this difference aren’t entirely clear. It could be that Asian consumers like to make the most of their apps, while trust issues and regulations play a role in the West.

Marketers’ Use of Social Media

Which Platforms Deliver Results for Marketers?

The report also provides insights into how marketers are using social media. It discusses which platforms yield the best results for various marketing goals. Marketers are increasingly adopting AI tools, with more consumers coming across AI-generated content. This trend is blurring the lines between real and artificial content.

“It’s fascinating to see how AI is changing the landscape of marketing,” said a marketer reflecting on the trends.

Understanding the Impact of These Trends

Looking at these insights, it’s clear that they could shape your marketing strategies for 2026. Here’s a brief overview of the potential impacts:

• Shifts in social media usage may change how brands connect with consumers.
• The growing importance of influencers could lead to more partnerships and collaborations.
• Social commerce’s rise indicates a need for brands to adapt their sales strategies.
• AI’s influence suggests that marketers should consider using more technology in their campaigns.

As you think about your marketing plans, consider these points. They may help guide your approach in the ever-evolving digital landscape.