Gen Alpha has had its time, but now it's Beta's turn. January 1, 2025 marks not just a new year but the start of Generation Beta, the group of kids born between 2025 and 2039. They'll be the seventh named generation since 1901, following Gen Alpha (born from 2010 to 2024).
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Who is Generation Beta?
Generation Beta will be born from 2025 to 2039; by 2035, they're expected to make up 16% of the global population. They'll be the children of Millennials and older Gen Zs. Although Generation Beta hasn't been born yet, we can predict some aspects based on current trends.
Mark McCrindle, the social researcher who coined the term "Generation Alpha," discusses in his podcast, McCrindle, that the next generation will be shaped by innovations like artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), robotics, and more. For them, technology will be integrated into everyday life, influencing everything from education, work, to how they socialize. While Gen Alpha is already growing up in a tech-savvy environment, Gen Beta is expected to experience these advancements (and future ones) on a whole new level.
They'll be the first to grow up fully immersed in advanced technology, but they'll also be the first to face its worst effects.
And yes, we get it—all of this might sound a little scary, especially for parents who are already worried about the challenges of raising kids in a tech-driven world, from screen time and cyberbullying to the dangers of social media. Now, with AI entering the chat, even more concerns are being raised about the next generation's future. That said, experts recommend that parents engage in open conversations with their children and become trusted partners in exploring any new tech together.
McCrindle also believes that Generation Beta will be defined by their embrace of diversity and inclusivity. He wrote in an article, "We anticipate that Generation Beta will be a technologically integrated generation, as well as a curious one, one that values diversity, embraces change and difference—because these are the themes of today that we expect to continue in the years to come."
Generation Beta's values may likely be influenced by their parents—Millennials and Gen Z. Millennials, who came of age in the 2000s, witnessed a rise in awareness of LGBTQ+ rights, racial equality, gender inclusivity, and other social issues. Gen Z, on the other hand, grew up with these issues being even more explored and normalized, as social media helped amplify diverse voices and foster global conversations about inclusivity.
Generation Beta may grow up in an environment where diversity and inclusivity are deeply ingrained, shaping their worldview and interactions from an early age if their parents continue to pass these values down.
Naming and labeling generations
According to McCrindle, generations should be named using a scientific method with clear and structured labels like X, Y, Z, and Alpha, instead of terms influenced by popular culture.
Using set birth years and neutral labels creates a more objective way to study generations while recognizing individuality. This method is likely to continue with future groups, such as Generation Beta, Gamma (2040–2054), and Delta (2055–2069). The 15-year time frame helps researchers compare trends and analyze generations globally.
While there's no official body responsible for naming generations, theorists Neil Howe and William Strauss were pioneers in this field. In their 1991 book Generations, they coined the term "Millennials" and developed the framework for naming subsequent generations.
The concept of generations also goes beyond simply categorizing people by birth period; it takes into account the historical, cultural, and social influences that shape each group. For example, Baby Boomers were shaped by the post-WWII economic expansion, while Generation Z has been deeply influenced by the rise of the internet, social media, and global connectivity.
Understanding these influences helps provide a more holistic view of each generation's unique characteristics and experiences.
Click here to learn more about the pros and cons of using AI tools for your child's education.
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