How Gen Z is shaping the future of mobile phones

Gen Z (13-28 years) has emerged as a key demographic in shaping the future of mobile technology, not just in Kenya, but around the world. As digital natives, their preferences and behaviors are instrumental in guiding smartphone design and functionality.

Gen Z’s identity has been shaped by the digital age, climate anxiety, a shifting financial landscape, and COVID-19. They are known as ‘digital natives’, the first generation to grow up with the internet.

As digital natives, they often turn to the internet when looking for any kind of information, including news and reviews before making a purchase. They flit between sites, apps, and social media feeds, each one forming a different part of their online ecosystem.

To meet the ever-shifting needs and preferences of this generation, smartphone manufacturers are aligning their offerings to meet them without running the risk of being caught up.

For this active and creative lot, connectivity and performance is essential in a mobile handset. For Gen Z, seamless connectivity is non-negotiable. A recent survey revealed that 78.2 percent of Gen Z users prioritise network coverage and speed when selecting mobile carriers, underscoring their reliance on smartphones for communication, education, and entertainment.

At the same time, for most of these young people who do not have disposable income, affordability without compromise is crucial. Financial considerations are paramount for Gen Z, many of whom are students or early-career professionals. They seek devices that offer flagship features without the premium price tag.

According to a study by the BBC, Gen Z are not simply spending on whatever they want the moment they think of it; instead, they’re being extremely deliberate with who gets their dollars, and when. Part of this choosiness is because of how much and how hard they’re working to have discretionary income in the first place.

To capture this consumer who wants the best without breaking the bank, mobile players globally are today delivering advanced functionalities at mid-range prices. This approach democratizes access to technology, allowing Gen Z users to enjoy high-quality devices without financial strain.

The rise of social media platforms has positioned Gen Z as prolific content creators, necessitating superior camera functionalities in smartphones. There is no doubt that Gen Z individuals prioritize smartphones with powerful cameras due to their deep integration of visual content into daily life.

Social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat are central to their communication and self-expression, relying heavily on high-quality photos and videos. A study by Kantar revealed that in the European Union countries, 60 percent of Gen Z smartphone owners purchased their devices primarily for camera quality, emphasizing the importance of advanced rear cameras and app features.

Majority of the Gen Z prefer smartphones that have cameras that feature a main sensor, catering to the generation’s desire for high-quality photography and videography.

A long-lasting battery is essential for Gen Z users who are constantly on the move. Gen Z’s preference for smartphones with extended battery life and robust durability stems from their highly connected and mobile-centric lifestyles, which demand reliable devices capable of supporting continuous usage without frequent recharging or concerns about physical wear and tear. This generation’s engagement in activities such as gaming, streaming, and social media requires smartphones that can endure prolonged periods of use, making battery longevity a critical factor in their purchasing decision.

Gen Z want devices that all feature high-capacity batteries and intelligent power management that can keep up with your productive workday. They can videoconference, track inventory, work on your latest projects, and still have enough battery life to stay connected through the end of your workday without worrying about their battery running out.

This demographic group values devices that remains relevant over time through consistent software updates. Gen Z places a high value on software support and device longevity when selecting smartphones due to several key factors.

They spend a significant portion of their day online, with studies indicating that Gen Z users average over six hours daily on their smartphones. This extensive usage necessitates devices that are not only reliable but also secure over extended periods. Consequently, the assurance of regular software updates, which address security vulnerabilities and enhance functionality, becomes crucial.

An aspect like Artificial Intelligence (AI) plays a significant role in enhancing user experiences, a feature appreciated by tech-savvy Gen Z users. Gen Z having grown up in a digitally immersive environment, places significant emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI) integration and superior user experience when selecting smartphones.