A new term has emerged: children born starting from January 1, 2025, will be called Generation Beta. This generation, comprising children born between 2025 and 2039, is expected to become an important part of the global population. By 2035, Generation Beta will account for roughly 16% of the world’s population. Many of its members will also be alive when the world enters the 22nd century.

Generation Beta will follow the pattern set by Generation Alpha, which includes people born between 2010 and 2024. Mark McCrindle, a social researcher who is known for naming generations, said that Generation Beta will come after Generation Alpha, Gen Z (born 1996–2010), and Millennials (born 1981–1996). This marks the beginning of a new era in history, with changes in society and technology shaping the generations to come.

Generation Beta will be raised in a world where technology is fully embedded into daily life. Unlike previous generations who witnessed the rise of smart tech and artificial intelligence (AI), Beta children will grow up with AI and automation being a natural part of everything they do. Whether it's in schools, hospitals, workplaces, or entertainment, technology will seamlessly surround them.

Mark McCrindle explains, “They will live in a time when AI and automation are not just accessible, but are integral to everyday life.” By the time they grow up, things like self-driving cars, wearable health devices, and virtual reality will be common in their world.

Generation Beta, born from 2025 to 2039, will grow up in a world deeply integrated with technology, including AI and automation in everyday life. While they will enjoy many technological advances, they will also inherit major challenges like climate change, urbanization, and shifting global populations. The values of adaptability, sustainability, and collaboration will be important for them.

Generation Beta will take on the responsibility of ensuring sustainability remains a key focus, building on the work started by Generation Alpha. Social media may evolve, and virtual interactions could become more dominant, making personal relationships harder to form.

They will be the first generation to come of age after the COVID-19 pandemic, though they will only learn about it through history lessons. While generational labels can provide context, researchers caution against oversimplifying experiences, as race and class often play a larger role in shaping an individual’s life. Generation Beta's future remains uncertain, but it will have a significant impact on technology, sustainability, and social changes in the years to come.