Gen Z and Alpha Want a Faster, More Private, Video-First Web — According to New Survey

A new survey by Acquia, in collaboration with TeenVoice, reveals that young digital users — Gen Z and Gen Alpha — are increasingly demanding a web experience that prioritizes speed, privacy, and video-first design, rather than traditional browsing. 

The report, titled “What Teens Want: Insights into the Digital Futures Gen Z and Gen Alpha Expect”, polled over 500 U.S. teens aged 13–19. Key findings include:

Privacy matters: 44% of respondents identified keeping their data private as their top priority. 

Video rules: Watching short-form video ranked as their most frequent online activity (39%), especially on platforms like Instagram (53%), YouTube (51%), and TikTok (50%). 

Personalization — but on their terms: While 42% want shopping suggestions and 37% want content based on their tastes, only 9% support AI making decisions for them — and 42% are unsure or opposed to that. 

Co-creation is key: A striking 71% of teens want to help design parts of their favorite websites. 

Speed and simplicity count: Major turnoffs are too many pop-ups or data-requests (44%) and sluggish page loads (37%). 

“Teens are redefining what good digital looks like,” said Jennifer Griffin Smith, Chief Marketing Officer at Acquia. “They want speed, privacy, and a voice in shaping their experience. Brands that respond accordingly will earn their trust — and loyalty — for years to come.” 

Based on the results, Acquia recommends that businesses adopt a privacy-first, AI-enabled digital strategy — one that leverages technology to boost performance and personalization, while giving users meaningful control. The company also suggests prioritizing video-driven engagement, transparency, and user co-creation as essential components for winning the next generation. 

To view the full report, please visit https://www.acquia.com/teenvoice-survey

Source: Acquia via GlobeNewswire – November 19, 2025.