Predicting UI trends for 2023 is a challenging task as user interface design continually evolves with new technologies and design approaches emerging regularly. However, based on current trends and the direction of the field, we can anticipate ten potential UI design trends that users will love.
The year 2022 marked significant developments in user interface (UI) design, setting the stage for substantial changes in how we interact with technology in the future. In this yearly prediction list compiled by Hints Asia Web Design Agency Singapore & Johor Bahru, we have identified ten of the latest UI trends, some of which are already underway and others that will have a far-reaching impact. Over the past few years, we have witnessed the rise of trends such as storytelling, dark mode, custom cursor interactions, unique illustrations, and bold typography. While these trends have become common knowledge, they continue to play vital roles in digital platforms. Now, let’s delve into what we can expect to define UI design in 2023 based on the events of 2022.
10 UI Web Design Trends 2023
1. Motion Design
Incorporating motion design into your UI can be a game-changer for user experience. By adding animations and other forms of movement, you can guide users’ attention, provide feedback, and create a sense of cohesion and flow within the interface. Motion design can also smooth transitions between different states or pages, offer feedback in response to user actions, and enhance micro-interactions—those small, subtle interactions that add personality to the interface. Whether you want to add flair to your UI or simply enhance the user experience, motion design is an essential tool in your design arsenal.

2. Custom Cursor Interactions
Custom cursor interactions were already popular in 2022 and will continue to thrive in 2023. These interactions provide a creative way to engage users and make your interface stand out. By using cursor movement as input, you can trigger animations and interactive elements on the page. These interactions can offer feedback and confirmation, guide users’ attention, and encourage exploration of the interface. However, it’s crucial to use them judiciously, striking a balance between visual appeal and usability. While custom cursor interactions can add personality and unique style to your interface, ensure they don’t create unnecessary difficulties for users, and prioritize a smooth user experience.

3. VR & AR
Virtual and augmented reality (VR and AR) technologies are rapidly gaining mainstream adoption, and we can expect to see more interfaces designed specifically for these platforms in 2023. As VR and AR technologies advance and become more accessible, designers will have greater opportunities to create immersive and interactive user experiences. This trend will involve thinking outside the box, moving beyond screen restrictions, and emphasizing interactions that feel like they occur within the real-world environment. Apple’s ARKit and Google’s ARCore have already introduced AR development platforms that blend the physical and digital worlds. Designers should start expanding their knowledge in this area, considering the context and function of AR experiences carefully. Mastering augmented reality interfaces and 3D elements can become a valuable skill in the upcoming years.

4. Dark Mode Only
Dark mode, characterized by dark colors and low-contrast text, will be a prominent trend in 2023. Dark mode offers several benefits for users and designers, making it an increasingly popular choice for interface design. It is easier on the eyes, especially for those who spend long hours in front of screens, reducing eye strain and fatigue. In 2023, we anticipate an increase in interfaces exclusively designed for dark mode, delivering a visually appealing user experience while conserving battery life on devices. Consider incorporating dark mode into your interface designs to create a more comfortable and visually pleasing user experience.

5. Bolder and More Characteristic Fonts
In the coming year, we expect to see a rise in interfaces that utilize bold and characteristic fonts to establish a cohesive and consistent brand identity while adding visual interest and personality to the design. These unique and eye-catching fonts can help brands stand out and create a more memorable user experience. By carefully selecting and implementing fonts that align with the brand’s personality and message, designers can create visually striking interfaces that leave a lasting impression on users.

6. Voice Interactions
With the increasing prevalence of smart speakers and other voice-enabled devices, it’s no surprise that we’ll witness a surge in interfaces designed specifically for voice interaction in 2023. These interfaces will leverage natural language processing and other AI technologies to understand and respond to voice commands, simplifying user interactions by enabling them to use their voice alone. The trend toward voice-based interfaces has the potential to revolutionize how we interact with technology, making it even more convenient and accessible. Voice-enabled interfaces provide hands-free control, which proves especially useful in situations where using traditional interfaces is inconvenient or challenging, such as while driving or cooking. Additionally, voice interfaces enhance accessibility for users with disabilities, allowing them to interact with devices without relying on keyboards or touchscreens.

7. Gradients
Gradients have been popular in UI design for several years, and they are likely to continue being used in some capacity in 2023. These color transitions add depth and dimension to designs, creating visually interesting and dynamic user experiences. Gradients can inject movement and energy into an interface while producing the illusion of depth. Designers can utilize gradients as a versatile tool to add visual interest and enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of their designs.

8. Simplification and Brutalism
As users face an overwhelming amount of information, designers are striving to create simpler and more focused interfaces. Minimalism is one approach to achieve this goal, utilizing whitespace and effective typography to guide users’ attention and prioritize essential information. Minimalist interfaces are clean and uncluttered, enabling users to find what they need and complete tasks efficiently. Another trend we may witness in 2023 is brutalism, characterized by raw, unfinished, and blocky elements in interface design. This style prioritizes functionality over aesthetics, aiming to create a sense of authenticity and honesty. Brutalist interfaces are straightforward and easy to navigate, ensuring users can understand and interact with them effortlessly.

9. Scrollytelling
Scrollytelling refers to the technique of revealing new content and animations as users scroll through an interface, creating a sense of discovery and progression. This approach is particularly effective for applications that rely on storytelling or immersive experiences, such as games or interactive media. By employing scroll-triggered animations to unveil content and add visual interest, designers can create interfaces that are more memorable and enjoyable to use. Scrollytelling captures users’ attention while engaging them with the brand’s narrative, making them feel like active participants in the story. The power of UX writing should not be underestimated in this regard.

10. AI-Powered Design
Artificial intelligence (AI) is making significant strides in UI design, with more interfaces incorporating this technology in various ways. In 2023, we can expect to see interfaces that utilize AI to analyze user behavior and customize the interface to their needs and preferences. For instance, AI-powered interfaces might track user actions and adjust the layout or content based on their past interactions. This personalization creates a more tailored and intuitive user experience, presenting users with information and options that align with their interests. AI can also automate tasks and provide intelligent recommendations. For example, an e-commerce interface might use AI to suggest products based on a user’s purchase history or browsing activity, facilitating product discovery and enhancing overall efficiency.

Factors Influencing UI Trends in 2023
As we look ahead to 2023, several factors will influence the UI trends that emerge and shape the field of user interface design. These factors include:
Accessibility and Inclusivity
Accessibility and inclusivity are gaining more attention in UI design. Designers are recognizing the importance of creating interfaces that are accessible to users with disabilities and inclusive of diverse user groups. As a result, UI trends are focusing on inclusive design principles, such as designing for different abilities, providing alternati