The modern internet, nearly three decades old, is showing signs of aging. As we reflect on how we interact, transact, and spend our time online, it's clear that our digital lives need a remodel. A new survey by The Verge and Vox Media, in partnership with Two Cents Insights, sheds light on the future of online communities, and the results are telling.

The survey, which polled over 2,000 US adults in December 2024, reveals that consumers are craving deeper, more meaningful connections with others who share similar values and interests. This desire for authenticity is driving a shift away from large social media platforms and towards smaller, more curated communities. According to the survey, 60% of respondents view the state of social media negatively, feeling that it has fueled societal divisions and made them feel like a number in a giant algorithmic machine.

One of the key takeaways from the survey is that big platforms are losing trust, and disruption is on the horizon. Forty-two percent of consumers find that search engines like Google are becoming less useful, and more people are flocking to AI chatbots, niche communities, and platforms like TikTok. This signals a massive shift and opens the door for disruptive entrants that will offer more authentic, trusted experiences.

Content is also playing a crucial role in digital communities, with 90% of respondents doing nothing but consuming content, and 1% creating 80% of the content. This highlights the importance of quality content in fostering meaningful connections within online communities.

However, the rise of AI is also transforming digital spaces, and not everyone is comfortable with it. Nearly half of consumers say they'd rather be part of a community that doesn't allow AI-generated content, indicating a desire for human-driven engagement. Platforms that strike the right balance between AI and human interaction will be the winners in this new landscape.

The survey's findings suggest that the future of community building lies in going back to the basics, focusing on smaller, more intimate communities where trust and shared values flourish. Brands and platforms that can foster these personal, human-scale interactions will be the winners in this new era of the internet.

As the internet continues to evolve, it's clear that the concept of community is poised for redefinition. Brands and platforms will need to adapt to this new landscape, prioritizing authenticity, trust, and human connection in order to capture the attention of their ideal audiences. The Verge and Vox Media's survey provides a roadmap for this evolution, highlighting the importance of curated experiences, quality content, and human-driven engagement in building successful online communities.

In conclusion, the future of the internet is likely to be shaped by smaller, more intimate communities that prioritize authenticity and trust. As we move forward in this emerging AI era, it's clear that the very ideas of community and human connection are poised for redefinition. Brands and platforms that can adapt to this new landscape will be the winners, while those that cling to old structures will be left behind.