Say hello to Generation Beta: following Gen Alpha and Gen Z born after January 1, 2025
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Generation Beta, set to begin on January 1, 2025, will comprise children born between 2025 and 2039. By 2035, this generation is expected to make up 16% of the global population, with many members likely to witness the dawn of the 22nd century. Mark McCrindle, a well-known social researcher credited with defining generational labels, states that Generation Beta follows Gen Alpha (born between 2010-2024), Gen Z (1996-2010), and millennials (1981-1996), continuing the naming tradition that began with Generation Alpha using the Greek alphabet to symbolize a new era in human history.
The 'Beta babies,' as they are being called, will grow up in an era defined by seamless integration of technology into daily life. They are expected to be the first generation to experience technologies such as autonomous transportation at scale, wearable health tech, and immersive virtual environments as everyday standards. According to McCrindle, "While Generation Alpha has witnessed the rise of smart technology and artificial intelligence, Generation Beta will live in a world where AI and automation are fully integrated into everything, from daily life to education, workplaces, healthcare, and entertainment."
Challenges for Generation Beta Along with being surrounded by cutting-edge technology, Generation Beta will inherit a world facing significant challenges, including climate change, urbanization, and changing global population dynamics. These issues will likely make adaptability, quality, and collaboration key priorities for this generation. Despite the growing eco-consciousness seen in previous generations, Generation Beta will be tasked with ensuring that sustainability becomes not just a trend, but a fundamental expectation. McCrindle highlights that understanding the needs, values, and preferences of Generation Beta will be crucial in anticipating how they will shape society’s future. Additionally, with social media platforms making genuine social connection increasingly rare, Generation Beta will need to find new ways to stay truly connected in an ever-evolving world.
