We're covering UX and UI design trends for 2021 and 2022

Contents:

• UX trends
• UI trends
• Typography
• The main trend: inclusivity, tolerance, and responsive design
• Summing up

2021 saw significant growth in design and usability. The pandemic and self-isolation highlighted the importance of a user-friendly and modern website or app for companies. With offline interactions declining, retaining customers has become difficult for those who haven't adapted to new requirements. Unlike 2020, when businesses were just beginning to adapt, 2021 has become a time of active development and innovation in the IT sector, including design. For most entrepreneurs, high-quality online resources have become not just desirable, but essential for successful business.

The pandemic is likely to be with us for a long time, highlighting the growing importance of UX and UI. In this article, we will analyze the trends in web design and mobile applications that have become relevant in 2021, and try to predict their further development. Effective user interface and product interaction experience are becoming key factors for success in the current realities. Attention to UX and UI is expected to continue to increase, as companies strive to provide their users with maximum convenience and satisfaction.

We will provide information on the following topics:

• UX trends;
• UI trends;
• typography;
• the main trend for the coming years.

UX trends

The term in question refers to UX techniques aimed at stimulating the user to perform a specific action. For example, such techniques may include effective call-to-action buttons, intuitive navigation elements, and an attractive design that retains attention. These strategies help improve the user experience and increase conversion on a website or app.

• On a booking site, a room card appears with the message "Last option at this price!"
• On an airline website, the message "5 tickets left" lights up next to the selected date.
• On a marketplace, while scrolling through the catalog, the message "Ivan A. just ordered this item" pops up.

Triggers that encourage users to purchase, book, or order are becoming increasingly relevant. This trend, although not new, has actively developed in 2021 due to the noticeable increase in e-commerce. In the modern world, the Internet has become the main tool for performing many everyday actions, which has led to significant growth in the online sales and services market. Competition in this area has also increased, making the use of effective triggers essential for attracting and retaining clients.

In 2021, we've seen an increase in the use of methods that influence user behavior in mobile apps. These techniques are becoming an important tool for increasing engagement and retention. Developers are increasingly integrating psychological aspects and gamification elements to create a more engaging user experience. Using such strategies not only improves interaction with the app but also helps build a loyal user community. Importantly, the correct application of these methods can significantly increase the effectiveness of marketing campaigns and the growth of active users.

• motivational messages;
• personalized recommendations;
• bonuses for regular use of the app.

This motivates the user to return to the site more often to receive their "reward." Regular interaction with content creates a sense of satisfaction and interest, which helps increase traffic.

The trend will certainly continue. It manifests itself in more and more new areas and demonstrates high efficiency. However, users are beginning to react negatively to pushy offers. Frequent messages like "Buy quickly, or you won't have time!" are perceived as irritating informational noise. Initial interest in such marketing strategies is gradually fading, and in the future, the emphasis will shift to softer, more unobtrusive approaches that don't overtly sell products. Meanwhile, the use of neural networks to analyze user behavior will only gain popularity and be implemented in all areas, allowing for the creation of more personalized and relevant offers.

Recently, desktop applications have faced significant competition from mobile apps and online services, leading to a slowdown in their development. The main reason for this phenomenon is office work: many users prefer not to install applications on other people's (work) computers or personal laptops that are used only occasionally. However, with the rise in remote work, desktop applications have begun to regain popularity. For example, using messengers during the workday becomes more convenient when used as apps, as it eliminates the need to constantly switch between browser tabs and simplifies communication. Importantly, desktop apps offer more functionality and a user-friendly interface, making them indispensable tools for everyday activities. The desktop apps for WhatsApp and Telegram, developed in 2016 and 2017, have received regular monthly updates since the start of the pandemic. These updates focus on fixing bugs and introducing new features, significantly improving the user experience. Additionally, Instagram, previously available exclusively on mobile devices, now functions fully within a standard web browser, expanding its accessibility and usability.

Remote work continues to be a relevant trend, as it has become firmly integrated into everyday life. Messengers have become the main means of communication between employees, replacing face-to-face meetings. In the near future, we expect the development of desktop applications for programs currently available only online, as well as improvements to the desktop versions of existing mobile apps. Some of these applications will likely operate without requiring a constant internet connection, increasing their convenience and accessibility for users. Voice typing is currently being actively used in mobile and web applications, as well as in search engines. The increasing pace of life is making text input increasingly less relevant, as users find it easier to use voice commands to obtain information or answers. This trend is prompting developers to focus on improving voice input technologies, as well as increasing their accuracy and speed. Innovations in this area open up new opportunities for user interaction with devices and significantly simplify the process of finding information.

Last year was key for the development of voice services. In 2023, companies such as Megafon, Beeline, VTB, and Alfa-Bank announced preparations to launch their own voice assistants. Existing systems also continue to improve: for example, Siri received two new voices this year—female and male. These changes highlight the growing importance of voice technology in everyday life and its potential to improve the user experience.

The trend toward voice assistant use will continue. According to analysts at Juniper Research, by 2023, there will be two to three voice assistants per person. This is explained by several factors. Firstly, in today's fast-paced world, voice control is becoming a convenient tool. Secondly, with the growing popularity of remote work and the decline of face-to-face communication, users are increasingly seeking to communicate by voice, stimulating the development of this technology. Thirdly, millennials and zoomers prefer voice messages to text input, as evidenced by their popularity in instant messaging apps. Thus, voice technology will play a significant role in the future of interface design.

Since its inception, the smartphone has become a vital part of modern life. With the rise of remote work, it has become a universal tool for work, training, study, and self-improvement. This year, a high-quality user experience (UX) for smartphones includes not only the layout of elements and the choice of fonts, but also expanded interaction options between the device and its owner. Improving UX is becoming a key factor in determining the effectiveness of smartphone use in various areas of life.

This year, controlling your Apple Watch smartwatch has become more intuitive thanks to gesture support. Now users can control the device by clenching and unclenching their fist or pinching their fingers together, without having to touch the screen. Furthermore, feedback between the smartphone and the user has improved: the number of microinteractions has increased, allowing for more effective responses to actions and improving the overall perception of the interface.

The trend towards improving the quality of interaction will undoubtedly continue. Every improvement in this area contributes to increased sales. As technology develops and devices become more productive, the variety of reactions to user actions also increases. This, in turn, creates deeper and richer interactions, which has a positive impact on the user experience and, as a result, on business success. Investing in high-quality interaction is becoming a key factor in achieving competitive advantages.

UI Trends

The majority of active and solvent internet users are millennials, whose childhood began in the 1990s. Nostalgia for those "warm, tube-like" times is reflected in modern design. Muted film tones and bright neon colors, simple, naive designs and geometric shapes are becoming important elements of design solutions. These trends not only evoke associations with the past but also attract audience attention, creating a unique atmosphere and a memorable visual experience.

Modern web design trends emphasize 3D technologies, and Apple's landing pages are a prime example of this approach. Their designs see an increase in the use of complex 3D elements and immersive effects. These visual solutions are not simply decorative but play a vital role in demonstrating key product features, enhancing user experience and fostering deeper brand engagement.

The term "new monochrome" describes a contemporary phenomenon in web design. Dark mode remains popular, but this year it has been enriched with new elements, including simulated glow and contrasting accents. These changes evoke nostalgia for the "neon nineties" culture. Websites designed in this style look fresh and attractive, while maintaining simplicity and functionality. This design approach allows us to create a unique atmosphere that attracts users' attention and ensures ease of information perception.

Nineties trends remain relevant, especially while millennials hold a leading position in culture. This era also attracts the attention of a younger generation, which brings fresh ideas and interpretations to familiar images. Nineties nostalgia will certainly persist, but not all elements of this style will stand the test of time. For example, while neumorphism is finding its place in modern design, neon lights may prove less resilient to fashion changes. Neon accents are currently making a comeback, but their popularity may be temporary.

Abstract graphics and pops of color remain relevant in design, making them popular in 2021 as well. This trend is characterized by complex gradients with soft transitions that create a harmonious visual perception. Pops of color have no clear boundaries, blending seamlessly into the background, but can also have sharper edges, reminiscent of tie-dye patterns. The use of abstract elements not only enlivens the interior, but also adds dynamism, which makes such solutions preferable for modern design projects.

The trend for gradients and abstractions continues to be relevant. These visual elements offer a wide range of implementation options. Combined with 3D technology and interactive capabilities, they open up new horizons for creativity and design. Gradients and abstract shapes can attract attention and create a unique user experience, making them indispensable in modern web design. The trend for illustration-based design has expanded significantly in 2021, including mobile apps. Visual elements are presented in a variety of formats, from 2D and 3D to characters and abstract images. These images can be harmoniously combined with simple drawn elements such as arrows, lettering, and geometric shapes. All these components are integrated into a light and modern geometric design. Among the most popular styles are minimalist and deliberately rough illustrations, which attract attention and create a unique atmosphere. Using such visual solutions not only improves user experience, but also increases the attractiveness of applications on the market.

The trend for using illustrations in design will continue. They add brightness and lightness, removing the seriousness from the visual design. The pandemic has made the world more closed and somber, and illustrations in user interfaces add a touch of joy and celebration. This is an important aspect for service providers. However, it's important to ensure the market doesn't become oversaturated with such solutions.

This year, we've seen a shift away from the trend toward collages and clipping paths. Nevertheless, the need to use photographs on websites and interfaces remains strong. Therefore, images are increasingly being complemented with geometric backgrounds and hand-drawn elements, which are also animated. This allows you to create more dynamic and engaging visual content that helps grab user attention and improve website engagement.

The trend for interaction with photos will remain relevant. Images used on most websites require an original approach to presentation. They should not only serve an informational or decorative function but also actively interact with the interface. Designers will be interested in developing new mechanics, and users will be actively engaged with them. This will create a more engaging and interactive experience that will attract attention and increase audience engagement.

Typography

Large brutalist fonts remain trendy throughout the year. They can feature animation or gradients, adding dynamism to the design. Contoured lettering, which adds visual expressiveness, is gaining popularity. Retro trends are also making a comeback, such as text arranged in a circle, within which elements such as logos or photographs can be placed. These trends highlight the uniqueness of the design and help attract the audience's attention.

This year, antique fonts are even less common on websites than last year. This is because they do not fit into modern design trends. Antique fonts are lost against bright gradients and clash with minimalist illustrations and three-dimensional graphics. Their use can create visual dissonance, making them less appealing to designers. In modern web designs, the emphasis is shifting toward cleaner, simpler fonts that better complement current visual solutions.

The trend for circular lettering may lose popularity, as it may become tiresome to users over time. This style certainly attracts attention and is reminiscent of past trends, but it may not be the most user-friendly. In contrast, large, outlined lettering is likely to remain relevant, especially as responsive design advances. An approach focused on usability and readability will have an advantage in the future.

Key Trend: Inclusivity, Tolerance, and Responsive Design

In 2021, a key design trend was embracing the individuality of each person and creating equal opportunities for everyone, including niche audiences. This trend is evident not only in the design of websites and mobile applications, but also affects user experience (UX). Designers strive for inclusivity, adapting their solutions so that they are accessible and understandable for all users, regardless of their characteristics or preferences. It is important to consider the diversity of the audience and apply the principles of universal design, which allows for the creation of more effective and attractive digital products.

This illustration rejects gender roles and stereotypes related to appearance through the use of abstract images and figurines that do not have a specific gender or age. Today, women are not required to conform to traditional standards such as being slim and wearing dresses, and retirees can look different than is commonly believed. Apple developers are actively combating gender stereotypes by adding a male voice to the female voice of Siri, which emphasizes the diversity and variety of identities in modern society.

Currently, many large companies and services are paying special attention to creating user-friendly interfaces for users with disabilities. This means not only developing special adaptive versions of their websites, but also integrating accessibility principles into the core design. This approach ensures a comfortable user experience for all users, regardless of their abilities. Companies that follow these principles not only expand their audience but also demonstrate social responsibility, which positively impacts their image and competitiveness in the digital environment.

The creation of responsive websites is based on the international standard WCAG 2.1. This standard establishes requirements that form the basis for current design trends. These requirements will shape web design trends in the coming years, ensuring accessibility and user experience. Responsive websites that comply with WCAG 2.1 standards not only improve user experience but also contribute to improved search engine rankings, making them an essential element of a successful online strategy.

• The standard sets very specific requirements for the contrast of text and images: at least 4.5 to 1. Exceptions are made only for large text and elements that are very insignificant from a UX perspective. This is why we will see fewer and fewer "pale" and "monochromatic" websites in the coming years.
• Because of these same standards, we will have to abandon very thin, low-contrast text outlines or glow effects.
• There are also separate requirements for the color combinations used. People with color vision deficiency may have difficulty perceiving combinations such as red and green, blue and violet, light green and yellow, green and blue, and blue and gray—instead of color contrasts, they see similar shades of color.
• Since the standard recommends using an intuitive zoom slider up to 200%, the design will be developed with the understanding that it should remain usable (and beautiful) when scaling.
• In a responsive version, color should not be the only means of conveying information. For example, if a form field is filled in incorrectly, a warning or special icon should appear in addition to the color highlighting. Designers will strive to solve problems graphically, so we can expect an increase in the number of interesting icons on websites.

The responsive web design trend will remain relevant throughout the next decade, as it creates a solid foundation for social interaction. We will see it evolve each year: large companies will commission responsive websites, and other organizations will follow suit, adopting new visual trends. Future trends include adaptive interfaces, mobile optimization, the use of artificial intelligence for content personalization, and an emphasis on user experience. These trends will shape web design and its functionality in the coming years.

• contrast;
• scalability;
• visual structuring of information.

We are confident that we will not make any mistakes in this forecast.

To summarize

UX/UI design continues to evolve rapidly, and the pandemic has had a significant impact on both the online sphere and the consumption of services in real life. Based on the analysis of the past year, we can highlight the key trends for 2022.

Among them, we can note the increased demand for inclusive design, which ensures the accessibility of interfaces for all users, regardless of their abilities. Minimalistic design is also gaining popularity, making interfaces clearer and easier to understand. User experience (UX) is becoming increasingly important, driven by the need to create products that meet user needs and provide a comfortable experience. Furthermore, the emphasis on mobile interfaces continues to grow, as more and more users prefer to access services via smartphones. Artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies are also being implemented, making interfaces more adaptive and personalized. These trends highlight the importance of constantly updating UX/UI design skills and adapting to changing user demands. Features that influence behavior are being adopted by those who have not yet used them. At the same time, their number is being reduced by those who have “played enough” with them in 2021.

• Allusions to the nineties remain - but in a new interpretation.
• Abstract graphics will continue to be used, but their style will evolve.
• Illustration will be in demand until the market becomes oversaturated and the pendulum swings in the other direction.
• Grotesques are still in fashion, but the style of their decoration is a very fleeting trend.

The pandemic continues to have a significant impact on the development of web design. Users have realized the benefits of online services, such as convenience and security. Regardless of the pandemic, we expect many new trends, including the development of VR technologies, active research in artificial intelligence, and the integration of neural networks into creative processes. These changes will shape the future of web design, making it more interactive and adaptive to user needs.

Reviewing the year is an important stage that allows us to evaluate the results achieved and identify areas for further development. Analyzing events and achievements helps us identify successful strategies and areas for improvement. Assessing the past year not only helps us understand the current situation but also helps us formulate plans for the future. Thus, the final analysis of the year becomes the basis for developing effective solutions and achieving new goals in the coming year.

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