Move over, Gen Alpha: 2025 marks the start of the Gen Beta era
NBCDEC 24 2024
2025 Brings Debut of 'Generation Beta'
Above: Medical workers take care of new-born babies at a hospital on New Year's Day on Jan. 1, 2025 in Yuping Dong Autonomous County, Tongren City, Guizhou Province, China. Image copyright: Hu Panxue/Contributor/VCG via Getty Images
The Facts
"Generation Beta," beginning with births on Jan. 1, 2025, and extending until approximately 2039, will succeed Generation Alpha as the newest demographic cohort in human history.
According to social researcher Mark McCrindle, Generation Beta will constitute 16% of the global population by 2035, with many members expected to live into the 22nd century.
These children will be primarily born to younger millennials and older Generation Z parents, marking the first generation to be born entirely in a post-COVID pandemic world.
The Spin
Narrative A
Generation Beta represents a potential unprecedented leap in human development, with AI integration and technological advancement creating opportunities for solving global challenges that previous generations couldn't address. These children will naturally navigate a world where digital and physical realms seamlessly merge — potentially leading to innovative solutions for climate change and social issues.
Narrative B
The rapid pace of technological change and societal transformation may create significant challenges for Generation Beta, including potential isolation from real-world experiences and overreliance on digital solutions. The generation faces serious environmental and social challenges inherited from previous generations while dealing with the psychological impacts of constant online connectivity.