Generation Beta? Meet the new demographic cohort born from 2025 to 2039 and what makes them unique

Generation Beta is, at least for now, the name being given to the babies and children who will succeed Generation Alpha. While generational boundaries often blur, Generation Beta is expected to begin with babies born in 2025 and extend through 2039. Generation Alpha, Beta’s closest generational predecessor, includes those born starting in 2010, according to Britannica, the website of the renowned encyclopedia.

According to McCrindle, a business consulting company specializing in generational research, Generation Beta is projected to include more than 2 billion people worldwide, potentially making it the largest generation in human history.

What Defines Generation Beta?

With the entire generation still in diapers, forming a unique profile of “Betarians” is impossible at this stage. Instead, researchers emphasize distinguishing this group from Generation Alpha to better track their development as workers, consumers, and citizens as they age.

Like other neighboring generations—such as Gen X and Millennials, or Millennials and Gen Z—there will be significant overlap between Generation Beta and Alpha. However, subtle differences in historical events, technological advancements, and social shifts will shape Beta’s worldview in ways that set them apart. These distinctions, while not universally applicable to every individual, help researchers analyze trends, behaviors, and attitudes across generations.

Where Does Generation Beta Get Its Name?

After Generation X (1965–1980) came the Millennials (1981–1995), also known as Generation Y. The next cohort was named Generation Z (1996–2010)—the last letter in the Latin alphabet.

Needing a new naming system, researchers restarted with Generation Alpha (2010–2024). By this pattern, the next logical name became Generation Beta. However, generational naming has not always followed such a structured format.

For example, those in their late 80s and 90s today—children of the Great Depression—are often called the Silent Generation (1928–1945). While the name refers to their traditional values and cautious approach to public life, their key role in the Civil Rights Movement and political activism should not be overlooked.

The Baby Boomers (1946–1964), the country’s largest generation for decades, were not named for their characteristics but rather for the post-World War II population boom that transformed economies and societies.

What Makes Generation Beta Unique?

Generation Beta is emerging during a period of global uncertainty and rapid technological change. However, they are far from the first to be born into an unpredictable world. Consider the Silent Generation: born during the Great Depression, they played pivotal roles in ending racial apartheid in the U.S. and worldwide, as well as securing independence from colonial rule.

Climate change, the future of work and automation, digital surveillance, social media, and unstable international order, will inform the development of Generation Beta: their worldview, politics, interests, and attitudes.

As we look to the future, one question looms: How will Generation Beta respond to the challenges ahead? Will they embrace technology or reject it? Will they adapt to climate challenges or become disillusioned? Will they rise to meet global issues or turn inward?

Only time will tell. But as the stewards of the present, today’s adults have the responsibility to leave behind a better world for those who come next.

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