Technology has updated our lives in many ways in the last decades. The effects of technology use are different for each generation. While older generations have witnessed how advanced technology can be, younger people have grown up with it and made it part of their lives.
From Baby Boomers to Generation Z, everyone has unique perspectives and experiences with technology, which we are going to discuss in this post.
Baby Boomer: 1946-1964
In the first place, many Baby Boomers were resistant, most have now adopted the digital age. Nowadays, a significant percentage of this generation actively uses smartphones, social media, and online shopping regularly. ExpressVPN’s recent survey says over half of all Baby Boomers use technology every day, with many using a website like Facebook to stay connected with family, relatives, and friends.
It’s found that many Boomers are wary of the possible risks of sharing personal information on social media or in online transactions. They tend to trust technology companies, especially when compared with the younger generation, which is aware of the potential risks.
Generation X: 1965-1980
Generation X is quite unique in that it adapts itself to rapid technological changes. They grew up playing with toys and board games, but once they reached their teens and young adulthood, home computers, video games, and the Internet were the new advancements.
Many members of Generation X were early adopters of email, instant messaging, and search engines. This Generation tends to have a very balanced view of life and technology. They can easily use digital devices for routine purposes, such as phone calls and texting. This is the generation that has moved from the typewriter to the computer keyboard and witnessed technological advancements in the workplace.
Millennials: 1981-1996
Due to growing in the rise of the internet during their young lives, millennials are also called “digital natives.” They were the first generation to adopt smartphones, social media, and texting as various forms of communication. Technology has always been present in their lives, and they are very comfortable integrating it into their personal and professional lives. Millennials were the first users of Facebook and Instagram and followed the new trend of how people connect with others in the digital age.
For this generation, a smartphone is more than an indispensable tool. In addition to their personal lives, most Millennials take advantage of remote work, freelancing, and the gig economy to grow professionally as well. Millennials are also concerned about its adverse effects despite their high dependence on technology.
Generation Z: 1997-2012
Well, Generation Z is entirely growing up with smartphones, high-speed internet, and social media, and they have no idea of the transition. They have grown up using technology to learn, seek entertainment, and interact with others from a very young age. This generation is more into short visual content such as Instagram reels, TikTok videos, or YouTube shorts than comprehensive content.
Social media is part of their routine, and TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram have become modes of communication and expression. Gen Z, on social media is more focussed into making their purchase decisions by taking advice from influencers. Their fluency with technology makes them used to AI, blockchain, VRs, and so on quite easily than any other generation. But, like Millennials, Gen Z has also become aware of privacy and mental health with how they use technology.
Final Thoughts
Technology has a unique impact on various generations and separate perspectives related to its usage and privacy concerns. While Baby Boomers are very impressed with technology and fully trust it, millennials and Gen Z have clear ideas of how to use it and to what extent. They are more aware of its other side.
As technology continues to evolve, each generation must be aware of both sides. Even new generations need to guide and support the old generation in using technology wisely while overcoming challenges and potential threats.
