Gen Z is dealing with tech regret, as the digitally native generation urgers for stricter government regulations on online safety and devices, to protect the next generation from the same.

Half of Gen Z (49%) would support legislation preventing children from owning a smart device, according to new research from global insights agency Opinium, as the generation that was raised on smartphones reflects on its long-term impact.

Gen Z – those born between 1997 and 2012 – received their first smart device at an average age of 13, but for many, it was even earlier. One in five (19%) had a smart device by age 10, and nearly 1 in 10 (9%) were just eight years old or younger.

In contrast, Millennials first accessed smart technology in adulthood (18 years old on average).

While most Gen Z (68%) believe they got their first device at the right time, 15% now think they were too young.

This concern is backed by their experiences – as three in four (75%) regret something they’ve done with their smartphone.

What Do Gen Z Regret?

According to the research, Gen Z are riddled with tech regret when it comes to their online practices and habits.

Much of the regret revolves around personal information they shared – 39% regret messaging strangers, while 30% regret sending images or videos to people they didn’t know.

About two in five (39%) regret posting personal images or videos in public places as well.

43% say they regret viewing what they deem as age-inappropriate content, while 37% say they regret starting an online relationship.

Only a fifth say they regret engaging in cyberbullying, hopefully reflecting less instances of the act occurring rather than a lack of regret.

With the Digital Safety and Data Protection Bill next being discussed in the House of Commons on 7 March, Opinium’s research reveals that Gen Z is not just reflecting on their experiences but advocating for change. Half (49%) would support legal restrictions preventing children from owning internet-enabled smart devices, while 39% would oppose such a move.

“The fact that half of Gen Z would back a legal ban on smart devices for children is remarkable – this is the first generation to grow up fully online, and now they’re questioning whether it was too much, too soon,” Matt Howlett, senior research executive at Opinium, commented.

“Our research shows a clear tension: while smart devices bring connectivity and convenience, there’s a real cost in terms of regret and exposure to harmful content. As policymakers debate new regulations, these findings highlight the voices of those who experienced the digital shift first-hand, many of whom clearly don’t want future generations to have the same experiences they did.”