We often hear that Gen Z is “just like Millennials, but younger.” Spoiler alert: they’re not.
Born between 1997 and 2007, Gen Z is growing up in a world shaped by climate anxiety, digital overload, economic instability, and a constant stream of global crises. They’re hyperconnected, hyperaware and they’re redefining what it means to be a telecom customer.
In the new 2025 trend report by TrendsActive and Telecompaper, we get a rare, data-rich look into the mindset of Gen Z in the Netherlands. The report focuses on the 18–27 age group; young adults who are stepping into independence and becoming a key demographic for telecom providers.
Here are 8 insights from the report that everyone in telecoms should know:
1. They want to spend less time on their phones
Yes, really. Despite being the most digitally connected generation, 74% of Gen Z say they want to reduce their screen time. That’s significantly more than Millennials (65%), Gen X (49%), and Boomers (37%). The digital detox is real!
2. They’re turning side hustles into main hustles
Gen Z is monetizing their digital lives like no generation before.
- 63% earn money via online marketplaces
- 26% via social media
- 21% through freelancing, dropshipping, or affiliate marketing
Telecom providers aren’t just selling connectivity, they’re enabling entrepreneurship.
3. They’re the family tech support
37% of Gen Z are regularly asked for tech help by older family members. That’s more than any other generation. They’re not just digital natives, they’re digital leaders.
4. They’re not in love with social media
While they dominate platforms like Instagram (95%), Snapchat (88%) and TikTok (71%), Gen Z is also deeply critical of them.
- 62% say social media harms the quality of social contact
- 45% believe the world would be better without it
This generation is craving more meaningful, less performative connection.
5. They still value real friendships
Despite their digital fluency, 65% of Gen Z say that speaking to someone online isn’t enough to build a real friendship. They want real-world connection, not just digital proximity.
6. Price and promotions matter a lot
When choosing a telecom provider, Gen Z is laser-focused on value:
- 34% say price is the most important factor
- 22% say promotions tip the scale
Forget brand loyalty, this generation shops smart.
7. They live in a visual world
Text is out, visuals are in. Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok dominate their attention spans. If your brand isn’t speaking in memes, reels, or stories—you’re not speaking their language.
8. They’re already 1.86 million strong
Gen Z makes up 7.8% of all mobile customers in the Netherlands. That’s 1.86 million people and growing. They’re not just the future of telecom: they’re the now.
What this means for telecom providers
Gen Z doesn’t just want fast internet and good coverage. They want brands that understand their values, support their ambitions, and help them navigate a complex digital world. They want authenticity, flexibility, and purpose.
Read the interview on TelecomPaper!
Download the full 2025 trend report by TrendsActive and Telecompaper and discover how your brand can stay relevant in a rapidly changing world.
