Generational Advancement with Technology
Over the past decade technology usage has increased astronomically. From 2008 to 2018 different social media platforms have amassed more than 2 million users. From Facebook, to Instagram, to Snapchat, and now TikTok! It’s a rare sight for someone to have zero social media platforms. Nowadays, these apps are used to grow businesses, connect with friends, or even apply for jobs! Instagram was started by Kevin Systrom, co-founding the brilliant idea in 2010 with his Stanford classmate Mike Krieger. It was first called Bourbn (for Kevins love of whiskey and bourbon), until his wife sparked an idea. The intention of acquiring the right angle for her post on the beach was not found. This inspired Kevin to change his app up a bit. He realized he needed filters. There was no other app on the market that gave you the ability to change filters and apply different designs to your photos! This separated Bourbn from the competition, later earning the name Instagram. This creation of instant posts permanently changed the game.
These advancements of technology are not just with Instagram, but with all social media applications. There have been viral videos of elderly folk in Apple stores trying to learn how to use their devices. These classes provided at certain Apple stores are crucial for this age demographic. You see, Gen Z has easily and quickly adapted to the rapid spread in full force technology, although sometimes it is hard to comprehend new fabrication of tech. For example, working in class with Medium. There was no visible confusion from the class, but we were going at a certain pace so everyone was understanding of the new process. College students now were early teens and middle schoolers when the boom of social media came to be. We grew up in a technology era and that most definitely helped us with the understanding of different creations. With this being said, imagine our grandparents!
Our older family members grew up in a time with only landlines. Even airplanes have evolved from years ago! There are different sites for younger generations to inform their older loved ones about how to use their handheld systems. Growing up with technology makes it easier to adapt and learn about new waves of communication. You can’t teach an old dog new tricks. When the internet first came out it was considered Web 1. This was reading only. Web 2 was the system that actively engaged the user. We are now into Web 3, which includes AI, crypto, and so much more. Imagine explaining this to your Mom and Dad! Although we have grown up in different ages, we are constantly trying to advance different technology systems. From landlines, to the dial phone, to the internet in your pocket, you are in a very special part of our lifetime. Maybe your grandfather will be the next Steve Jobs after he walks out of his introductory phone class! Welcome to the new era.
