Social research firm McCrindle has introduced the world to Generation Beta, the cohort set to follow Generation Alpha.
Founded by Mark McCrindle, a recent article from the research firm states, “Generation Beta is defined as those born between 2025 and 2039.”
This new generation, poised to enter the world stage in 2025, is expected to make up a significant portion of the global population within a decade. “By 2035 they will make up 16 percent of the global population,” McCrindle reports.
The naming of this generation follows a scientific approach, utilizing Greek letters to indicate the significant changes expected in the world the new generation will be a part of.
“We named them Alpha and Beta to signify not just new generations, but the first generations that will be shaped by an entirely different world,” explains McCrindle.
Generation Beta will be born to younger Millennials and older members of Generation Z, growing up in a world where technology is deeply integrated into every aspect of life. McCrindle predicts that for these children, “the digital and physical worlds will be seamless.”
The technological advancements awaiting Generation Beta are expected to be vastly different from what we know today. According to McCrindle, “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.”
According to researchers, one notable difference is the relationship between technology and parenting is expected to be complex. McCrindle’s research indicates that while Millennial parents have embraced technology in raising their children, Generation Z parents are more cautious. “Gen Z parents are more likely to strongly agree that limiting their child’s screen time is a high priority for them (36 percent Gen Z parents compared to 30 percent older Millennial parents),” the firm reports.
The firm reports that beyond technology Generation Beta will also face other societal changes including changes in global population, climate, and rapid urbanization, which are expected to be at the forefront of their concerns. As a result, McCrindle suggests that “sustainability will not just be a preference but an expectation” for this generation.
The social landscape for Generation Beta is also predicted to be unique. McCrindle states, “We predict Generation Beta will embody the balance between hyper-connectivity and personal expression. They’ll redefine what it means to belong, blending in-person relationships with global digital communities.”
Looking ahead, McCrindle said they believe it is important to understand the next generation as such “is the key to shaping a better future.”
According to his about me page, Mark McCrindle describes himself as “a social analyst and demographer whose passions lie in tracking social trends, communicating insights and generational analysis.”