According to McCrindle, a consultancy specializing in social trends and generational analysis, the world is about to welcome a new generation defined by those born between 2025 and 2039, who will witness and shape a completely different world.
Known as Generation Beta, this group will consist of the children of the younger Generation Y (millennials) and the older Generation Z (centennials), who are expected to represent 16 percent of the global population by 2035. "Many of them will live to see the 22nd century," highlights McCrindle in its analysis.
The study predicts that the new generations will be heavily influenced by technology, sustainability, and a growing community awareness, where the boundaries between the digital and physical worlds will become virtually invisible due to artificial intelligence.
“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 integrated into everyday life, from education and workplaces to healthcare and entertainment,” the consultancy notes.
Considering technological advancements, Generation Beta is likely to be the first to experience large-scale autonomous transportation as well as immersive virtual environments. AI will also shape their educational years, placing greater emphasis on personalization as algorithms adapt their learning, consumption habits, and social interactions.
Like Generation Z and Generation Alpha, Generation Beta will grow up with social media, although it remains unclear how these platforms will evolve in the next decade. However, unlike millennials, centennial parents are expected to be more cautious about the potential dangers of technology.
“As the most tech-savvy generation of parents, Generation Z sees the benefits of technology and the time spent in front of a screen, but they also recognize the downsides and oppose the age at which their children access and engage with it,” the study indicates.
Social connection will also differ for these new generations, who will likely seek a balance between hyperconnectivity and personal expression “in a world of always-on technology,” blending in-person relationships with global digital communities.
Raised by millennial parents and older Generation Z, the 'artificials' will inherit a world facing global challenges: climate change, demographic transformations, and rapid urbanization are just a few examples. For this reason, sustainability and ecological awareness will be part of their priorities.
“This will make Generation Beta more global-minded, community-focused, and collaborative than ever. Their education will emphasize the importance of innovation not just for convenience but to solve the most urgent challenges of their time,” McCrindle stated in its blog.