How do you incorporate current mobile animation trends?

1 The benefits of mobile animation

Mobile animation can be used for multiple purposes within design, such as drawing attention to essential elements or actions, providing feedback or confirmation to user inputs, creating smooth transitions between screens or states, adding personality and branding to your app or website, and improving engagement and retention rates. However, mobile animation should not be used frivolously; it must always be in support of the user's goals, expectations, and context. Otherwise, it can become a distraction, cause confusion, or annoy users.

2 The types of mobile animation

Mobile animation can be categorized into four main types, according to their function and effect. Functional animation supports user navigation, interaction, or understanding of the interface. Examples include buttons that change color or shape when tapped, loading indicators that show progress, or swipe gestures that reveal menus. Transitional animation creates a smooth transition between screens or states; for instance, cards that flip over to reveal more details, slide-in effects that introduce a new screen, or fade-out effects that close a modal. Supplemental animation adds extra information or value to the content; an example is a chart that animates to show data changes, a map that zooms in to show location details, or a video that plays automatically when scrolled into view. Lastly, delightful animation adds emotion, humor, or surprise to the interface; for example, mascots that react to user actions, confetti effects that celebrate milestones, or subtle motions that add life to illustrations.

3 The principles of mobile animation

To ensure mobile animation is effective, consistent, and accessible, it should adhere to some basic principles. Simplicity is key: Mobile animation should be clear and concise, using simple shapes, colors, and movements that match the design's overall style and tone. Additionally, it should be relevant to the content, context, and purpose of the interface, while avoiding arbitrary or random effects. Responsiveness is also important; mobile animation should be fast and adaptive to different screen sizes, orientations, and resolutions. Finally, accessibility should be a priority; mobile animation should follow accessibility guidelines such as using sufficient contrast and providing alternative options for users who prefer reduced motion.

5 The examples of mobile animation trends

Mobile animation trends are constantly transforming due to user preferences, design standards, and technological advancements. To stay up to date, consider incorporating some of the current mobile animation trends into your design. Micro-interactions are small, subtle animations that occur when users perform certain actions, providing feedback and creating an engaging interface. Motion typography is the animation of text elements, enhancing readability and hierarchy. Liquid effects simulate the fluidity of liquids and add a playful touch. 3D effects create the illusion of depth and realism, making the interface more immersive and interactive.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?