People have been left utterly convinced that the new name given to all babies born in the last three months actually has a hidden meaning.
OK, so we know about the five prior generations; Baby Boomers (born 1946–1964), Gen X (born 1965–1979), Millennials (born 1980–1994), Gen Z (born 1995–2012), and even Gen Alpha (born 2013-2024) - but what on earth do we call the generation after that?
What is the next generation called?
Well, whether you like it or lump it, this new cohort of babies will be referred to as none other than 'Generation Beta' - or 'Gen Beta' for short.
This latest generation is categorised as being welcomed to the world between 2025 and 2039 - meaning they could end up being the first generation to live into the 22nd century.
What do people make of the 'Gen Beta' name?
The term 'beta' seems to have quite a few negative connotations, with internet slang defining it as meaning 'weak' or 'passive - basically the antithesis of what it means to be 'alpha'.
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But, considering that the term comes from the Greek alphabet, it's only right that 'beta' would come after 'alpha'.
Language expert John Kelly told The Wall Street Journal that the two terms are particularly popular in hypermasculine communities in which being 'alpha' brings with it ideas of desirable traits like dominance, and power while 'beta' means to be a submissive man.
Therefore, by that logic, to refer to an entire generation as 'beta' is an affront.
Regardless of what you personally think, it's clear a fair few people online align themselves with this point of view with one social media user writing on X: "Now why would they name the poor kids beta… glad my son was born in 2024."
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"Who is deciding the names for these?? I want to meet them," declared a second.
A third chimed in: "Lmao they got the worst generation name they finna be mad as hell."
"Please consider renaming these poor children, naming them Beta from the start is setting them up for failure," urged another.
And a final X user echoed: "Can't wait for the non stop 'beta male' jokes."
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How will Gen Beta differ from other generations?
In a blog post, demographer and consultant Mark McCrindle explained that the upcoming generation will 'grow up in a world shaped by breakthroughs in technology, evolving social norms, and an increasing focus on sustainability and global citizenship'.
He also shared his thoughts on what the likely key traits of Gen Beta will end up being.
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The expert continued: "Generation Beta will also inherit a world grappling with major societal challenges. With climate change, global population shifts, and rapid urbanisation at the forefront, sustainability will not just be a preference, but an expectation.
"This generation will be raised by Millennial and older Gen Z parents, many of whom prioritise adaptability, equality, and eco-consciousness in their parenting."
Due to this, Gen Beta will allegedly be 'more globally minded, community-focused, and collaborative than ever before' as their upbringing will 'emphasise the importance of innovation not just for convenience, but for solving the pressing challenges of their time'.
Why are some people sad about the fate of Gen Beta?
Unlike their predecessors, social connection will look totally different for Gen Beta - something many people may be quite sad over.
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"Born into a world of always-on technology, they will navigate friendships, education, and careers in an era where digital interaction is the default," McCrindle adds. "However, curating their own digital identities with safety and wisdom (driven by their parents) will be a priority, as will helping them foster a strong sense of individuality - both in online and offline environments."
Because of this, McCrindle predicts that this latest generation will 'embody the balance between hyper-connectivity and personal expression', adding: "They’ll redefine what it means to belong, blending in-person relationships with global digital communities."
Topics: Gen Z, Life, Parenting, Pregnancy, Social Media, Technology, Environment
Rhiannon Ingle