Why Reducing Screen Time is the New Innovation Frontier
Georgia Wray Norsten — March 27, 2025 — About
At Trend Hunter’s Future Festival, Chief Content Officer Armida Ascano explored how Millennials -- often labeled as the most analyzed (and criticized) generation -- are redefining their relationship with AI. Born between 1980 and 1998, this generation grew up in a unique tech era, from unmonitored internet access to the rise of social media and the weight of online comparison culture. Today, as digital fatigue sets in, Millennials are craving less screen time -- not more tech -- and AI might be the tool to make that possible.
Ascano divided Millennials into three microgenerations, each with different needs. Pro Millennials (ages 38–44) focus on reducing tech use for their kids while equipping them with future-ready tools. Think AI-enhanced toys that foster creativity and emotional intelligence—without defaulting to screens. Mid Millennials (30–37) want AI to offload repetitive tasks, allowing them to reclaim their time and creativity, especially in the workplace. Meanwhile, Nouveau Millennials (25–29) are battling anxiety, burnout, and 150+ phone checks a day. For them, AI’s most valuable application might be in helping them unplug through analog-style tech or even AI-powered journaling.
Rather than glamorizing AI as a flashy, futuristic trend, Millennials see it as a potential means to reclaim their humanity. At a time when work-life balance and mental wellness are front of mind, AI is being reframed as a quiet, supportive presence. That perspective stood out at the trend forecasting conference, where the discussion centered on what AI can do and how it can help us step back from screens and reconnect with what matters.
Whether through more mindful parenting or ditching doomscrolling for real-life experiences, the Millennial wish is simple: let AI do the dishes so we can return to being human.
Want to explore how different generations are engaging with AI? Join Future Festival 2025 in New York City -- one of the leading innovation conferences and the go-to trend forecasting conference for future-focused professionals.
Image Credit: Austin Distel on Unsplash
Ascano divided Millennials into three microgenerations, each with different needs. Pro Millennials (ages 38–44) focus on reducing tech use for their kids while equipping them with future-ready tools. Think AI-enhanced toys that foster creativity and emotional intelligence—without defaulting to screens. Mid Millennials (30–37) want AI to offload repetitive tasks, allowing them to reclaim their time and creativity, especially in the workplace. Meanwhile, Nouveau Millennials (25–29) are battling anxiety, burnout, and 150+ phone checks a day. For them, AI’s most valuable application might be in helping them unplug through analog-style tech or even AI-powered journaling.
Rather than glamorizing AI as a flashy, futuristic trend, Millennials see it as a potential means to reclaim their humanity. At a time when work-life balance and mental wellness are front of mind, AI is being reframed as a quiet, supportive presence. That perspective stood out at the trend forecasting conference, where the discussion centered on what AI can do and how it can help us step back from screens and reconnect with what matters.
Whether through more mindful parenting or ditching doomscrolling for real-life experiences, the Millennial wish is simple: let AI do the dishes so we can return to being human.
Want to explore how different generations are engaging with AI? Join Future Festival 2025 in New York City -- one of the leading innovation conferences and the go-to trend forecasting conference for future-focused professionals.
Image Credit: Austin Distel on Unsplash
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