Gen Z and Gen Alpha reshape storytelling through digital platforms

Younger generations are redefining entertainment by turning to social media platforms and artificial intelligence, according to the 2026 Teens and Screens report. Euronews and Cord Cutters News both report that the study highlights a shift in viewing habits among Gen Z and Gen Alpha audiences. [1][2]

Euronews reported that the study was conducted by the Center for Scholars and Storytellers at the University of California, Los Angeles. The annual research began five years ago to analyse the media habits of more than 1,500 Americans between the ages of 10 and 24. Euronews added that younger audiences still demand better on-screen representation while showing openness to AI storytelling. [1]

Generation Alpha is the demographic cohort following Generation Z and is the first generation born entirely in the 21st century. Meanwhile, Google acquired the video platform YouTube in November 2006 for 1.65 billion dollars in stock, growing it into a major global media site with billions of hours of video watched daily. [3][5]