The year 2025 marks the beginning of a new generation, called Beta, which includes babies born between 2025 and 2039. By 2035 this generation will make up 16 percent of the global population
They will be the children of younger Gen Ys (millennials) and older Gen Zs and many of them live to see the 22nd century, according to Mark McCrindle a social researcher and futurist who coined the term 'Generation Alpha'.
Generation Beta follows Generation Alpha (born 2010-2024) and they will be shaped by an entirely different world. "We know that generational transitions are more than just chronological—they are defined by the events, technologies, and cultural shifts of their time. Generation Beta represents a pivotal chapter in our evolving world," he said.
But who will Generation Beta be?
According to McCrindle, for Generation Beta, the digital and physical worlds will be seamless. While Generation Alpha has experienced the rise of smart technology and artificial intelligence, Generation Beta will live in an era where AI and automation are fully embedded in everyday life—from education and workplaces to healthcare and entertainment.
They will likely be the first generation to experience autonomous transportation at scale, wearable health technologies, and immersive virtual environments as standard aspects of daily life.
Their formative years will be marked by a greater emphasis on personalization—AI algorithms will tailor their learning, shopping, and social interactions in ways we can only begin to imagine today, he said.
While many Millennial parents use social media to document their children’s lives, Generation Z knows more about both the positives and challenges that come with social media use from a young age.
Gen Z parents are more likely to strongly agree that limiting their child’s screen time is a high priority for them (36% Gen Z parents compared to 30% older Millennial parents). As the most technologically savvy generation of parents, Gen Z sees the benefits of technology and screen time, but equally, they see the downsides of it and are pushing back on technology and the age at which their children access and engage with it.
The social connection will look different for Generation Beta. Born into a world of always-on technology, they will navigate friendships, education, and careers in an era where digital interaction is the default. However, curating their own digital identities with safety and wisdom (driven by their parents) will be a priority, as will help them foster a strong sense of individuality – both in online and offline environments.
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