In today’s fast-paced digital world, capturing someone’s attention is harder than ever. Users scroll quickly, skip ads, and ignore banners. That’s why more brands are turning to interactive ads — a smarter, more engaging way to connect with audiences.
Unlike traditional ads, interactive ads invite users to participate. This can mean clicking, swiping, voting, or even playing a game. The goal? To turn viewers into active participants and build a deeper brand experience.
Let’s explore what interactive ads are, why they matter, and how you can use them to supercharge your digital marketing.
What Are Interactive Ads?
Interactive ads are digital advertisements that respond to user actions. They go beyond static images or plain video — they ask users to engage.
Here are some simple examples:
- Polls or quizzes on Instagram or Facebook Stories
- Playable ads that let users try a game or app before downloading
- Augmented reality (AR) filters that allow users to “try on” makeup, clothes, or sunglasses
- Swipeable product carousels on TikTok or YouTube Shorts
- 360-degree video tours for real estate or car brands
These ads create experiences, not just impressions. They invite curiosity and spark conversations — which leads to better results.
Why Are Interactive Ads So Effective?
1. They Hold Attention
People are more likely to interact with something that responds to them. Research from Magna Global shows that interactive video ads lead to a 47% increase in time spent with the content compared to static formats (Magna Global, 2019).
2. Higher Engagement Rates
Interactive ads are 2x more engaging than standard display ads, according to eMarketer (2023). Whether it’s voting in a poll or spinning a wheel, small actions make users more involved.
3. Better Conversions
A study by Innovid found that interactive video ads can result in 11x higher conversion rates than traditional video ads (Innovid, 2021). When users engage, they’re more likely to click, sign up, or buy.
4. More Data, Better Insights
Interactive ads can collect valuable data like preferences, interests, or behavior. This makes your next campaign even smarter.
Popular Types of Interactive Ads
Here are the most effective formats you can use in your campaigns:
1. Playable Ads
Mini-games where users try an app or product. Perfect for mobile app marketers.
🔧 Try this tool: Playables
2. Polls & Quizzes
Ask questions to learn more about your audience and drive fun engagement.
🔧 Try it with: Typeform or Outgrow
3. 360° Video Ads
Let users explore products or locations by rotating the view. Used in travel, real estate, and auto industries.
🔧 Try: VeeR VR
4. Augmented Reality (AR) Filters
Users can virtually try a product using their camera.
🔧 Build your own with: Meta Spark Studio or 8thWall
5. Shoppable Videos
Clickable videos that let viewers buy products directly from the ad.
Real Brand Success Stories
Nike — AR Sneaker Launch
Nike used AR ads on Snapchat. Users pointed their phone at a Snapcode and saw a 3D model of the latest sneaker, which they could explore in real time.
Netflix — Bandersnatch Ad
For its interactive film Bandersnatch, Netflix launched a playable ad where users could make story decisions, mimicking the actual show format.
BMW — Virtual Test Drive
BMW used 360-degree video ads to let users take a virtual test drive of a new model. The immersive format helped build excitement and trust.
Benefits of Interactive Ads
| Benefit | What It Means |
| More attention | Users spend longer time on the ad |
| Stronger recall | Viewers remember interactive experiences better |
| Higher click-throughs | Interaction creates curiosity and leads to more clicks |
| Increased conversions | When users participate, they’re more likely to take the next step |
| Rich data collection | Learn more about what users like or want |
| Better mobile experience | Mobile-first formats feel natural to today’s smartphone users |
Where to Use Interactive Ads
Here are platforms where interactive ads thrive:
1. Social Media
Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat are perfect for AR filters, polls, and carousel ads.
2. Mobile Games
Playable ads work great within gaming apps to promote other games or utilities.
3. Websites
Add interactive banners, quizzes, or sliders to your landing pages.
🔧 Try: Bannerwise
4. Google & Programmatic Ads
Use formats like responsive display ads or rich media ads through Google’s Display & Video 360.
Challenges to Consider
1. Higher Costs
Creating interactive ads can cost more than static ones — especially if animation, AR, or video is involved.
2. Technical Complexity
You may need designers or developers to build advanced experiences.
3. Overcomplicated User Journey
Too many steps or confusing UX can push users away. Keep it smooth and simple.
4. Tracking
Not all platforms offer detailed tracking for interactions. Set KPIs that match the format.
Tips to Build Great Interactive Ads
- ✅ Make it simple – One clear action is better than many.
- 📱 Design for mobile first – 90%+ of interactions happen on smartphones.
- 🔁 Use storytelling – Tell a story users can play or be part of.
- 🧪 A/B test formats – See what works and keep improving.
- 💡 Provide value – Fun, learning, discounts, or personalization make people want to engage.
The Future of Interactive Advertising
Interactive ads are evolving fast, and here’s what’s next:
- 🧠 AI-powered personalization – Ads will change based on who’s watching in real time.
- 🛒 Shoppable experiences – Buying directly from a TikTok or Instagram ad.
- 🗣️ Voice-activated ads – Through smart speakers like Alexa and Google Assistant.
- 📳 Haptic feedback ads – Ads that vibrate or simulate touch for a richer feel.
According to Statista, global digital ad spend will reach $740 billion by 2027, and interactive formats are growing the fastest among all types (Statista, 2024).
Note
Interactive ads are no longer a trend — they are a must-have in today’s digital marketing. They boost attention, engagement, and sales while giving brands more insight into user behavior.
Whether you’re a startup or a big brand, it’s time to move beyond static ads. Start with a simple poll or quiz. Then explore playable or AR experiences. The more engaging your ads are, the more your audience will remember — and buy.
Don’t just advertise — invite your audience to play, swipe, vote, and interact. That’s how you win in 2025.
More Read
References
eMarketer. (2023). Why interactive ads drive better engagement. eMarketer. https://www.emarketer.com/content/interactive-video-ads-see-higher-engagement
Innovid. (2021). State of Interactive Video Advertising. Innovid. https://www.innovid.com/resources/interactive-video-report/
Magna Global. (2019). The interactive effect: How interactivity enhances advertising. Magna Global. https://magnaglobal.com/the-interactive-effect/
Statista. (2024). Digital advertising spending worldwide from 2018 to 2027. Statista. https://www.statista.com/statistics/237974/online-advertising-spending-worldwide/
