Clicking through the ages: How tech unites and divides us!
India has always had a unique bonding with technology. From the slow hum of dial-up internet back in the early 2000s to modern 5G speed powering everything from WhatsApp calls to AI shopping assistants, India's digital growth has been explosive. But how different age groups use and perceive technology still varies — and that’s what makes India’s tech journey truly fascinating.
This Technology Day, let’s understand how various generations — from boomers to Gen Z are navigating the digital world, each at their own speed and style.
Born before 1965, many boomers started their tech journey late — often through their children or as a post-retirement hobby. While once intimidated by mobile phones and internet banking, a growing number of people are now confidently using UPI, watching religious discourses on social media, and forward “Good Morning” messages religiously on WhatsApp.
Popular Choices:
WhatsApp for communication
YouTube for bhajans and news
Facebook for keeping in touch with extended family
Challenges:
Data privacy and online scams
Fear of ‘breaking’ something while using smartphones
Gen X (born between 1965–1980) enjoy both worlds. They experienced India’s transformation from typewriters to touchscreen and learned to adapt fast. They had to switch from landlines to smartphones or from paper bills to UPI.
Often playing as tech support for their parents and mentors to their kids, generation X balances nostalgia with modern convenience.
Tech traits:
Active users of UPI, online shopping, Google Maps
Use social media cautiously but daily
Prioritize cybersecurity and practical utility
People born between 1981–1996, technology is second nature. From Orkut scraps to Instagram reels, they’ve grown up alongside tech's biggest milestones. Additionally, they’re driving India’s app economy — banking, shopping, working, and even dating through their phones.
Behavioral trends:
Always aware of online trends and data security
Mix entertainment with education — podcasts, e-learning, skill platforms
Those who were born after 1997 don't just use technology — they breathe it. Raised by algorithms, and fluent in memes, they are creators and consumers at once. From AI art to blockchain buzzwords, this generation is pushing the limits of what’s possible.
Tech profile:
Spend 6–8 hours online regularly
Prefer using social media
Use artificial intelligence tools and coding apps for creativity and productivity
Emerging interests:
AI tools for school projects
Influencer-led shopping
Fintech platforms
Despite these stark differences, one thing unites all generations — the desire to stay connected and relevant. Whether it’s grandparents learning how to conduct video call their grandchildren or kids teaching their parents how to set up FASTag, India is bridging its tech divide through a unique spirit of togetherness.
For Boomers: Use voice assistants to simplify tasks
For Gen X: Learn easy cybersecurity habits (e.g., strong passwords, app permissions)
For Millennials: Stay updated on fintech innovations and everyday AI developments
For Gen Z: Balance screen time with real-life hobbies
India’s tech story is not about who’s quicker to use tech, but about how we evolve together. From “Missed Calls” as a form of communication to video-calling across continents, the elaborate journey is proof that tech is less about age and more about curiosity.
So, this National Technology Day, let’s celebrate not just the gadgets and modern useful technologies— but the generations using them, adapting with them, and pushing India to grow forward.
