If you intend to develop mobile applications and rely on their success, it is worthwhile to consider the current trends that are visible in the chart and will take the lead in 2022. Monitoring current app design trends and incorporating them into your work will make the app more modern and bring communication with customers on the same wavelength.
According to application designers in Shopify Development Company, the following graphic design trends will lead in 2022, almost exactly like in 2021:
Neomorphism
These design trends are distinguished by the fact that they use simple keys, the icons of which have a three-dimensional look. This style, from the 2010s, allows you to create ordinary shapes and make them amazing while maintaining a cartoonish design, but at the same time adding amazing realism thanks to new improved 3D graphics. Mobile App for Good will leverage emerging trends like AI and P2P to create innovative apps that benefit society. Although the concept of neomorphic does not provide users with photographic realism of the image, such buttons and icons “feel tactile” because they appear bulging and three-dimensional. In fact, Neumorphism gives flat icons and buttons a curvaceous dimensional appearance.
A weather app is a classic example of neomorphic. Source.
The popularity of this style is also associated with the development of virtual and augmented reality because it is literally the creation of a three-dimensional effect on a plane. Neomorphism goes well with minimalism, and combining them will allow you to come up with new solutions for shading and other styles. In any case, neomorphic is expected to become even more in demand in 2022 than it is now.
Visual effects that are pleasing to the eye
The graphic design of the application should be not only beautiful, and catchy, but also pleasant to use. These days, when many of us are chained to our phones and staring at screens all day, this is more relevant than ever. In the past 2020, remote forms of work, training, and communication were actively developed, so the schedule began to rapidly adapt to the changed conditions. On-demand delivery apps are mobile apps that allow users to request and receive delivery of goods and services at the touch of a button. App designers sense the need for users to have a more comfortable viewing experience that reduces eye strain by offering a simple, integrated design combined with soothing colors and eye-pleasing visuals.
These apps use calm, natural colors and simple layouts that don’t bore users with complex shapes and allow them to stare at the screen for longer without discomfort. Technically, the simpler the design, the more minimalistic the concept, the more convenient it is to work with, and the easier it is not to be distracted by unnecessary and cumbersome interface details.
Attract swipes
The most popular among mobile devices are swipes, they can only get ahead of desktop computers. On desktop computers, we used mouse clicks, but swiping on the screen is even cooler and more convenient. Accordingly, app graphic design trends in 2022 favor the click option, while making it even more interesting, unforgettable, and also fun.
There are many ways to improve the quality and functionality of these swipes. You should always use your imagination. It is always a long road from ordinary functions to a necessary feature that simplifies user tasks and, most importantly, speeds them up. For example, you can add animation to a simple swipe – and now flipping through pictures, pages or other kinds of content becomes even more pleasant. Online Food Delivery Apps are embracing bold, colorful, and playful graphics to capture users’ attention.
Depth through shadows and layering
If we need to focus on certain elements, we can introduce a shadow technique, this will help to bring out the effect of depth. In this way, you can highlight the main thing, and disperse attention at the same time to the background, this is a very used and well-known method that gives a good impetus to contrasting details and is very often used in 2022.
Creating visual depth is an effective method for developing a modern and extraordinary application. Shadow contrast can be added to icons, images, buttons, and any other interface element. Therefore, if you want to get a good structure with a clear hierarchy and a wonderful appearance, you need to learn how to combine shadows with a layered overlay of elements. If we use shadows, the application opens up a completely different, interesting dimension for the user, and if we also add shadows, this will only increase the effect of futurism and the feeling of being inside the interface, so that the client can fully immerse himself in the process using the application
Analog Design Inspirations
We cannot say that if we introduce the latest technologies, this guarantees a 100% result. . Many years of experience of designers show that analog sources of inspiration are increasingly coming to the fore – retro is back, and in this case, it represents elements of the familiar world around. Therefore, this means that if we introduce textures of the most ordinary things and materials, as well as collage-inspired layouts, slightly yellowed, warm backgrounds instead of pure whites, retro typography, and outdated button design.
Also now, in 2022, the design of applications in the style of newspapers and magazines, as well as board games, is very popular, therefore, along with the development of new technologies, the emergence of innovative materials, more and more often you can see the design of the application in different styles, it can also be the style of old-school calculators and board games, giving high-tech applications a familiar atmosphere of yesteryear. The originality of this style lies in the lightness of the sensations when using this style. The main task is that the application is very pleasant and homely.
Abstract and geometric art
In 2022, a style has become popular again, in which strict, abstract forms, cold and clear geometry, and an artistic approach to design are popular, it should also be noted that now trends are increasingly gravitating towards realism and the implementation of spatial effects in applications. The stricter geometric style will be used primarily for startups and apps as an alternative to photographic realism, according to design experts. This style attracts attention, as it has bright colors, and light abstract shapes, all of this will provide comfortable viewing, and will not distract attention from the functionality of the application. It draws attention with bright colors and simple abstract shapes and provides a comfortable viewing experience without interfering with the application.
The result is a delicate balance between intricate detail and simplicity, while still retaining a large amount of variation and artistry. In 2022, more app developers are expected to experiment with more complex abstract images that are extremely simplistic yet elegant and graceful.
Unusual use of angles in design
Now, there are many alternatives to right angles. In 2022, different interesting approaches will become very popular, for example, interesting angles that can create a very unusual interface. They can be seen in design elements as well as in the background; in the latter case, a deviation from standard rules for giving angles in background images will become relevant, drawing users’ attention to a new direction.
As a result, in order to stand out, it is sometimes necessary to go beyond the usual presentation boundaries. An unusual angle can add even more dynamics to the interface. Hence, this app graphic design trend seems to be exploratory, playful, and a bit rebellious as it breaks all boundaries and rules.
Immersion in virtual reality and augmented reality
Quarantine has forever altered our lives, and virtual and augmented reality technologies are currently undergoing active development. When it is forbidden to leave the house, this option is not only the only way to get some much-needed rest, but it also provides many interactive design options. But now that the quarantine has ended and the world has returned to normalcy, interest in these technologies has not waned.
The world has been moving in this direction for the past 15 years, and the virus has simply accelerated the process, compressing what should have taken ten years into six months. And, whereas these technologies were previously considered only in the gaming industry, the pandemic demonstrated that the use of AR and VR can be implemented in other areas of activity, not just in the entertainment industry.
Developers are creating designs that allow the user to feel inside the application through subtle yet attractive design elements, useful supporting information in the right places, and gamification of the entire experience, which is a key feature of this trend. Using these apps is meant to feel like an addictive game that keeps you occupied while you navigate the interface.
In the application of virtual and augmented reality technologies, the main thing is to think outside the box, this will allow you to find creative ways to implement them while striving to improve not only the visual experience but also increase the usefulness for the user. For example, the IKEA AR app lets you see how furniture looks in different places in a given room, eliminating the need for users to repeatedly move pieces of furniture around to find the perfect spot.
Now many companies are thinking about solutions for integrating VR and AR into their digital products. If the new wave of VR gains momentum, we will soon see graphic design evolve in unusual ways, as well as offer very unusual opportunities for promoting products and services.
Creative data visualization
The boring presentation of material in math classes leads to a new trend in data visualization, designed to make a variety of graphs interesting and understandable. Consequently, there are tables, graphs, lists, and databases that today look very outdated, visually ugly, and tedious.
Accordingly, therefore, whether you are developing an application to present data or simply want to have a fun conversation about some numbers, data visualization is an optional feature. With the help of these unusual creative trends, you can add creativity to analytics
If the owner wants to share unusual information with the user, he can introduce unique types of graphics, animations, and different colors to attract the attention of the consumer. Today, one of the top methods can be called wavy patterns, as they are able to create an unusual mesmerizing, hypnotic effect that has an unusual visual appearance.
Another point is the visualization of information in such a way that it does not look like data, but more like a general information flow and brings a lot of pleasure, which will soon help with a creative approach to the design of tables and graphs.
The Best Mobile App Design Solutions of 2022
All mobile app trends are evolving very fast. But in most cases, the story of the best solutions does not end, because after small adjustments they can also be used a second time. The ideal solution is one that meets the needs of both the user and the owner. The most unsuccessful and low-quality concepts were actively eliminated in the first half of 2022. Therefore, in this chart, we have collected all the graphic trends that are still popular and will definitely be in demand in the near future.
Combination of clarity and minimalism
Because mobile displays are small and should only display useful information, users have always preferred those with a bright, simple, and clear design. An examination of activity over the previous six months revealed that visitors are more likely to return to a light minimalist design. Content in a concise design is much easier to perceive, which improves the application’s functionality.
Design that is dark and contrasting
In terms of popularity, the dark theme interface has broken all records. She has a large number of fans who are firmly committed to this design choice. The use of dark contrasting colors in the design contributes to vision relaxation, relieving the eyes of unnecessary stress. When you can carefully consider every detail, the display of highlights is more successful with a dark background. Its application enables you to design a modern and functional interface. It has become a timeless classic that will never go out of style.
Implementation of 3D graphics
3D graphics is still a strong trend, especially when it comes to e-commerce. However, the very concept of 3D is also undergoing changes. The relevance of the wow effect gradually subsided. Modern specialists are advised to focus on the use of 3D interactivity. That is, the task is not only to demonstrate products from each side but also to help users during the configuration of interaction parameters with 3D images. Based on the current pace of development, we can confidently say that in the near future 3D graphics will receive even more functionality.
Customization
The use of the customized design always attracts the user. So the person who logged into the mobile application feels that the content was created personally for him. There is a rapid increase in this trend, so in the near future, the orientation of design to the person will become even more relevant.
Visualized data
Do not forget that boring numbers and facts can be turned into more readable graphs and charts. This direction covers all types of business, including mobile applications. The more graphics, the more convenient the information for perception, and this statement will be valid at all times.
Create unique illustrations
Illustrations, in particular unique ones, do not lose their popularity. With their help, a certain opinion about the application is formed, which allows it to stand out from competitors. Users appreciate the use of illustrations as they create easy-to-read, attractive, and user-friendly content. This trend has not only continued but continues to grow.
User interaction
The orientation of the improved interface is aimed at creating a personal, one might say intimate, connection with visitors. That is why a number of trends are only expected to strengthen.
Interactive videos. Now the use of video content is rapidly developing, it is used in many areas. It is likely that in many mobile applications there will soon be a multitude of themed interactive videos. All this is in order to increase user engagement.
Emotional design. The creation of emotional design has been relevant for more than one year – this is a very popular demanded direction. With it, applications acquire even greater individuality, interest users in interacting with the design, evoke positive emotions in them, and prolong the session of stay in the application.
Animation and gamification. If you use animation, it will simplify communication with users and increase engagement. These are very popular and often used techniques, and also very effective.
Emoji. The user experience with emojis becomes more vibrant. Emoji are of great importance for mobile applications that support user interaction with each other, including communication. Today, without it, it is impossible to create comfortable communication, which will soon have only a growing trend.
What design trends will be fashionable in the near future?
Very soon, first of all, when creating a mobile application, they will initially create a well-thought-out design, in which marketing analysis and user behavior are read. Therefore, a design that achieves its goals is able to interest the user and evoke positive emotions and interaction, so it will be popular for a very long time.
You need to be very careful when using graphics, you should also remember that filling applications with bright and catchy pictures have not been relevant for a long time, except that they continue to use it in mobile games. Commercial projects require a modern approach to attract the maximum number of users and interest them in long-term interaction. When working with a palette of colors, it is better not to focus on bright, flashy colors, so as not to repel visitors, and comfortable enough for viewing. In general, the trends will remain the same, but over time they will constantly improve. Hence, therefore, it is important to keep track of design updates and take them into account when updating applications.
Other 2022 App Graphics Trends
Let’s explore what will be popular in-app graphics for 2022.
Colors
Whether you have a startup, a small cafe with a mobile app or a company with a different profile, the evolution of color in any digital product is always contradictory: on the one hand, bright and pale colors, on the other hand, artificial and natural. Therefore, 2022 will surprise us with the use of delicate, pleasant colors. If we talk about bright elements, they will be introduced only if some elements need to be highlighted. Hence, in 2022, the color palette is more subdued and pastel.
It is also important that the gradients are light, minimalistic, and subtle. Bright colors are no longer popular in 2022.
However, if you want to stand out, you can use unusual futuristic patterns and wild combinations; this technique is used to draw attention. Many mobile applications today are based on minimalism. As a result, some of them frequently have a bright pattern, such as on the first page or somewhere near the top of each section of the application, where users should pay attention to it.
Emotional design
Today, in order to stand out, designers have rapidly begun to use bold and scrolling fonts, if we talk about typographic techniques. in 2022, overlay fonts on interface elements will also gain popularity. Very often there will be a way to combine a combination of slightly compatible fonts and bold headings, as they work well with both minimalism and absurd design. This method helps emphasize the idea and helps separate the content.
It is worth noting that by using bold fonts, we can give the brand personality, which will help to attract the attention of users over time. Using bold fonts will help visually separate some sections, as well as emphasize the main idea, this fits perfectly into modern minimalism.
Dark Mode
Since 2020, Apple has been advising on implementing dark mode in its applications, most likely soon it will even be called a requirement for mobile applications on iOS and Android. The top brands already use it in their applications. It can be called very convenient for many users, and This is not surprising. Many even use dark mode by default. Accordingly, we can safely say that it will become even more popular, and the number of applications with dark mode will increase every day. Therefore, from the favorable side of this trend, this is the possibility of saving battery power and the absence of harm to vision.
Space for empty space
A completely new trend was created, which is also associated with minimalism and the principle of the human brain. On the one hand, it is difficult to rethink all the information that the application has if all pages are overloaded, on the other hand, the meaning is much easier to perceive if there is little data on the page and there is only one block surrounded by a large number of spaces.
Asymmetrical web layouts
Ordinary sites get bored very quickly and require new, creative solutions. Asymmetrical layouts are primarily needed to personalize and create dynamism for applications. Specialists can offer very original solutions that users do not even know about.
Unusual illustrations
Unusual images will be very popular to use. In 2022, non-standard solutions, artistic styles, and original copyright pictures will be increasingly valued. Therefore, standard images in 2022 are of no interest to anyone.
They will be used, but for a standard product. If you want to attract attention, use the original author’s pictures or bright illustrations.
Mixing photography with graphics
We have heard about it before and it will continue to exist in the design of mobile applications. Here we can include the collage effect and an unusual photo. Of course, an unusual illustration produces a shocking effect, but if we use photo merging, it softens the effect, which can surprise or arouse interest in a certain way, therefore in this way we can put emphasis on individuality and thus enhance or highlight something. This also includes surrealism, and some fabulousness in the presentation of images, which will also gain momentum in 2022.
Animated illustrations
Since illustrations are able to add more and more details, therefore, they can increase the importance of the block. For example, if you need to add narration, you can use an animated picture, this will help you quickly find contact with the user, instead of long conversations. In this way, we can very quickly find emotional contact between the user and the interface, as well as in every possible way to attract the attention of the user, especially if he can interact with the animation. It’s more about grabbing attention and creating a kind of emotional connection between the user and the interface, increasing user engagement, especially if you can invite them to interact with the animation by clicking on it.
This way of interaction with the user is the most effective today.
3D graphics and 3D animation
This is one of the hottest trends today that has proven itself the best, and it is worth noting that this will not change in the coming years. 3D elements have now become very popular in web browsers and mobile applications. This popularity will continue. Accordingly, 3D helps to show all the most wonderful aspects of the product from all angles. Therefore, it helps the consumer to get closer to the product by examining it by scrolling as well as by touching.
Moreover, with the help of 3D elements, we can increase our sales. In addition, we can remember interesting patterns and illustrations, all with the help of 3D. This will help us stand out. You can also implement volumetric effects.
Waiting for the implementation of graphic trends 2022
User-friendliness and lightness come first. Now it’s our little pocket helpers that are great fun to work with, not just tools. Designers in 2022 know better than anyone how to make design easy to use and very entertaining.
It is worth noting that 3D geometry is a trend that goes very well with minimalism. With the help of 3D visualization, we can emphasize the best qualities of a brand or product. All this will not be reflected brightly in the design, it will still be minimalistic and light.
