: Nearly half of Gen Z report making long-term friends while gaming, with many socializing more in virtual worlds than in person. Social platforms like have furthered this communal experience. The Rise of AI Companions : Over 64% of teens have experimented with AI chatbots
: These platforms allow teenagers to connect with others who share similar interests, creating global communities around shared passions.
AI is no longer a novelty but a standard tool. 64% of teens have experimented with AI chatbots, and generative video is increasingly used to create "synthetic celebrities" and virtual influencers.
Data based on Pew Research, Common Sense Media (2023–2025 estimates)
It is a mistake to view gaming as just "playing a game." For teens, platforms like are digital malls. They are places to hang out, attend virtual concerts (like those held by Travis Scott or Ariana Grande), and express identity through digital "skins" and avatars.
While social media is often categorized as a single entity, teens use specific apps for distinct purposes.
Teens in 2026 are nearly "constantly" online, favoring video-first and interactive ecosystems. Short Videos, Big Impact on Youth Mental Health