Trending now: Labubu, Veo 3, bbno$ & more
Jul 08, 2025 – [[read-time]] minute read
Labubu
Shopping
What it is: Created by Hong Kong illustrator Kasing Lung and popular retailer Pop Mart, these pointy-teethed "blind box" trinkets have exploded in popularity. They've captured the attention of creators and celebrities like Rihanna, Dua Lipa, and BlackPink's LISA, who showcased hers in a viral interview. The "blind box" element adds surprise to each purchase. This has fueled a surge in user-generated content, with DIY creators crocheting outfits and customizing Labubus for various aesthetics and events.
Why it matters: Labubu's rise signifies a fascinating crossover between collectible culture and high fashion. Its customizable nature encourages creative expression; owners are showcasing inventive ways to accessorize their Labubus, from matching goth aesthetics to creating DIY versions and keychains. Labubu has evolved beyond a hobby, becoming an essential, versatile accessory that reflects individual fashion aesthetics.
Pretty Little Baby
Music
What it is: American music artist Connie Francis was active throughout the 1950s and ‘60s, becoming the first woman to reach #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. In 1962, she released “Pretty Little Baby,” a B-side track that didn’t make waves – until now. Thanks to Shorts, the song has jumped up the global Daily Top Songs chart, with creators using the song to show off pets, outfits, partners, and more.
Why it matters: Initially not on YouTube, Francis’s channel released the official audio on May 27, accumulating over 3M views and landing on Trending over 60 years after its initial release. Having recorded the track in multiple languages, Francis also posted versions in French, Japanese, Spanish, and others, furthering her global reach. “Pretty Little Baby” is the latest example of how Shorts can be instrumental in reviving classic songs.
Veo 3
AI
What it is: Veo 3 marks a significant leap in AI video generation. Unlike previous models where sound was added in post-production, Veo 3 can generate native audio, including dialogue, sound effects, and ambient noise, all perfectly synced with visuals. This technology is being used for short-form videos, montages, and challenges. Creators are also stitching clips together to create longer narratives, maintaining consistent characters and voices across different scenes.
Why it matters: Veo 3 has generated significant buzz since its release, democratizing high-quality video development by lowering production costs and expanding creative access. It is coming directly to YouTube later this year, and if early videos made using Veo 3 are any indication, creators are eager to push the technology with hyperbolic prompts, use it to question reality, and try out effects.
bbno$
Music
What it is: bbno$ (pronounced baby no money) is the stage name of Canadian rapper Alexander Gumuchian, who found a flourishing fan base on YouTube and TikTok by tapping into online culture, and creatively harnessing the power of fan communities through animation and cosplay. He describes himself as "chronically online," actively participating in internet communities and incorporating slang, memes, and references like "Skibidi Toilet" and Hatsune Miku into his work.
Why it matters: bbno$'s unique approach to fan engagement sets him apart. He actively supports and platforms animation communities by reposting fan art, holding contests for album covers, and commissioning animators for his music videos, sparking viral trends. His success highlights a new model for musicians: directly engaging online communities, empowering creators, and authentically responding to feedback.
Sports Simulations
Sports
What it is: Gaming creators are using realistic sports video game simulations to predict outcomes and explore "what-if" scenarios for real and fantasy sports. Players leverage games like NBA 2K and Madden to rapidly simulate sports events. These games execute matches based on customizable factors such as athlete stats and home advantage. Creators either record full games or fast-forward for commentary on results.
Why it matters: Both the gaming and sports communities share a love of skill, strategy, and entertaining stories, and these simulations let creators explore the possibilities of all three, sometimes with real world impact. Through gaming, creators offer sports fans a new lens on the different possibilities of upcoming events.