How AR is changing the way Indian GenZs connect, shop & express

Snapchat, a global camera platform, in partnership with Crowd DNA today released the 2022 edition of the India Gen Z report shedding light on generation-specific emerging audience behaviors, trends and their impact on society.

In its first edition, the report highlights the unique as well as distinctive characteristics of Gen Z in four big areas: identity, communication, commerce, and connection. 

Conducted across 16 countries including India to primarily understand what’s at the heart of the Snapchat Generation and their attitude towards culture, technology and community.

Identity

Around the world, this generation is championing transparency, reimagining online life as something that feels real, fulfilling, and genuinely fun.

In particular, Gen Z is leading a shift towards realness, determined to embrace their true self and explore their identities, despite pressures of expectation. 

• Nearly 60% believe that being true to ‘who I am’ has become even more important to them
• 77% believe that they get stronger and grow from challenges
• 88% seek positive spaces and environment

Communication

Gen Z is redefining the normal and expressing themselves in more creative and immersive ways to deepen connections with others.

• 7 in 10 Gen Z use visual communication to get a more personal connection
• 73% of Gen Z feel that AR experiences are more relatable as it gives a personalized experience

Commerce

Gen Z is turning to platforms like Snapchat to make shopping a more social experience. It doesn’t matter if you don’t feel like going to the store or if your friends can’t make it–shopping has become a more immersive experience. 

This generation gets inspired, tries on products via AR, and consult with friends and family, all before purchasing.

• 95% of Indian Gen Z are interested in using Augmented Reality (AR) for shopping
• A whopping 92% are interested in using AR to try on makeup or clothes

Connections

Gen Z are also actively seeking meaning and guidance from their friendships, brands, and the broader world as connections matter more than ever to them.

• 7 in 10 Gen Z plan to spend more time connecting in-person with their friends and family than before the pandemic
• 86% of respondents agree that connecting with close friends is the simplest way for them to feel happier
• 80% of Gen Z value taking action for the collective good

The research also throws light on the top five values for Gen Z. While having fun tops the chart with 77%, this is followed by caring for health and wellbeing with 71%. Accomplishing goals, making money and being creative share the rest of the values pie.

Commenting on the report, Gaurav Jain, Head of APAC, Business Expansion at Snap said, "The Gen Z is an interesting and evolving segment with very distinct characteristics and the ability to influence how we communicate, connect, and consume. Over the years, we have observed how they have come to appreciate and rely on tech-backed, visually-driven connections for communication, self-expression and commerce – something that the 2022 Gen Z report reinforces. They are a growing force to be reckoned with and we are confident that brands will see an opportunity in investing in this generation that is untapped and waiting to be explored.”

At Snapchat, we have long believed that the camera can and will do incredible things to enhance our lives. This is why we have intentionally centered Snap around AR and the camera to empower our community to express themselves, live in the moment, learn about the world, and have fun together.”

Overall, the Gen Z is a uniquely powerful audience who want to be seen for who they really are and have the values, positive outlook, and desire to make the world a better place. They’re looking for brands to believe in and meet them where they are. 

The Snapchat Generation 2022

This report helps advertisers and marketers gain a better understanding of what makes our audience and platform unique. Inside the report, you’ll find highlights on how the Snapchat Generation is redefining the shopping experience, seeking to build better connections with brands, and sharing every moment along the way.

Gen Z in 2022: Culture, Commerce, and Conversations

For media, journalists, and researchers who want to learn more about what Gen Z is prioritizing, this report covers the shifts that Gen Z is leading and how brands can adapt effectively to Gen Z’s outlook.