Gen Z: Redefining Mobile Marketing in Southeast Asia
There’s no denying it: Generation Z is reshaping how brands connect with consumers, especially on mobile.
In Southeast Asia, where mobile penetration continues to rise, Gen Z is driving a shift in how we approach advertising. Whether through mobile gaming, social commerce, or general mobile use, brands that understand this generation’s behaviour are well-positioned to capture their attention. And to do this effectively, AI has become a crucial tool.
In this article, we’ll explore this in more detail and explore how brands can leverage AI-powered platforms like SQREEM Technologies and digital contextual marketing solutions like TotallyAwesome to stay ahead in this competitive market – all the while keeping the Gen Z's user privacy intact.
Understanding Gen Z in Southeast Asia
Gen Z, born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, is the first generation to grow up fully immersed in technology. In Southeast Asia, where mobile penetration is above 76%, this generation is spending more time on mobile devices than ever before, whether gaming, streaming, or engaging with brands.
Short-form video is also a major trend with Gen Z, with platforms like TikTok leading the charge, as seen in the latest GWI data, which highlights a sharp rise in short-form video consumption, particularly for sports.
Singaporean Gen Zs: How AI and Digital Marketing Shape Their Experience
Singaporean Gen Zs stand out for their high engagement with digital platforms. Despite representing just 1% of Southeast Asia’s population, Singapore contributes 23% of Grab’s revenue, underscoring the strong digital engagement of its consumers.
Additionally, 69% of Asian Gen Zs feel uncertainty is detrimental to their mental health. As such, brands that create community, emphasise well-being, and promote authentic interactions will resonate more strongly with Gen Z. This aligns with broader trends in the region, as explored in our article on APAC AI in 2026: 4 Trends You Need To Know.
How AI Can Help You Reach Gen Z Without Invasive Tracking
One of the most important things to highlight is that neither SQREEM Technologies nor TotallyAwesome relies on PII (personally identifiable information) or cookies to deliver personalised experiences. Both companies use AI to analyse behavioural signals that allow for deep personalisation without the need to collect sensitive data. This is crucial when marketing to Gen Z, a generation that values privacy and expects transparency from brands. For a deeper dive into ethical considerations, consider "The AI Ethics Handbook" by Mark Coeckelbergh, which discusses the importance of privacy in AI applications.^ The AI Ethics Handbook
Gen Z’s preference for values-driven consumerism and their need for authenticity have made it necessary for brands to build relationships based on trust. AI allows companies to personalise their communication without sacrificing privacy or trust, maintaining alignment with Gen Z’s values.
1. AI-Driven Personalisation for Mobile Marketing
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Gen Z expects brands to understand their preferences and deliver experiences tailored to them. AI is what enables that level of personalisation without relying on invasive tracking methods. Platforms like SQREEM Technologies analyse behavioural patterns and deliver ads that resonate—at exactly the right moment. This allows brands to connect with their audience without sacrificing trust or privacy. This approach is a key part of AI's Secret Revolution: Trends You Can't Miss.
2. Rewarded Video Ads: Adding Value Without Disruption
Let’s face it—Gen Z is savvy, and they’re not fans of ads that interrupt their experience. That’s why rewarded video ads have become a smart, non-intrusive way to engage this generation. AI helps predict the best moments to serve these ads, making sure they feel like a natural part of the mobile experience.
3. AI-Powered Social Commerce
Gen Z doesn’t just engage with content—they also shop directly within mobile apps. AI is revolutionising social commerce by predicting purchasing behaviour and creating personalised shopping experiences. With tools like those provided by TotallyAwesome, brands can offer products that align perfectly with Gen Z’s interests, right within the apps they already use. This shift in consumer behaviour also impacts other areas, such as how ChatGPT's 'Buy It' Button Is Quietly Rewriting Online Shopping.
Measuring Effectiveness: AI’s Real Power
1. Real-Time Data for Smarter Decisions
When it comes to measuring the success of campaigns, impressions and clicks only tell part of the story. AI provides deeper, real-time insights into how Gen Z interacts with your brand across different platforms. SQREEM Technologies tracks behaviours across mobile, social, and gaming environments, giving brands a holistic view of their impact.
2. Cross-Channel Integration
Gen Z is constantly shifting between platforms—from gaming apps to social media and back. AI helps brands track these interactions seamlessly across multiple touchpoints, ensuring consistent messaging and engagement.
AI-Driven Trends to Watch
1. Playable Ads and Interactive Experiences
AI is making interactive ads, like playable ads, even more engaging. These ads allow users to interact with a product or service in a game-like environment before downloading or purchasing it. For Gen Z, who craves control and interactivity, AI-driven playable ads offer a fun, non-intrusive way to explore new products.
2. Virtual Goods and NFTs
AI is also helping brands navigate the growing world of virtual goods and NFTs. By predicting which digital products will resonate most with Gen Z, AI is helping companies create exclusive virtual items that tap into their interests—whether in mobile games or social platforms.
The Future of AI and Gen Z: Building Authentic Connections
AI is transforming how we engage with Gen Z, especially when it comes to mobile marketing. Platforms like SQREEM Technologies and TotallyAwesome are using AI to deliver hyper-personalised, non-intrusive experiences—without relying on PII or cookies. This approach aligns perfectly with Gen Z’s expectations for privacy and personalisation.
As AI continues to evolve, so too will our ability to meet Gen Z exactly where they are—on their mobile devices, across games, social platforms, and beyond.
Comment and Share:
How will your brand adapt as AI reshapes Gen Z's expectations for personalised, meaningful interactions—and do you feel you need AI to do this yet? Share your ideas and experiences with AI and AGI technologies in the comments below. And don’t forget to Subscribe to our newsletter for updates on AI and AGI developments.
Latest Comments (3)
Interesting read, Adrian. It's wild how much Gen Z’s habits have really solidified since you probably first started researching this. I’m curious, do you reckon the "values-driven" aspect has actually translated into measurable purchasing decisions, or is it still more of an aspirational preference for them here in Southeast Asia? I see a lot of talk, but sometimes the spend doesn't quite match up.
Proper interesting read, lah! I was just chatting with my niece about how she finds most ads a bit cringey unless they're super authentic. It really hit home when this piece mentioned personalised experiences and values. Definitely coming back to this to properly digest the bit on AI because it's a huge game changer.
Interesting take, Adrian! While AI can personalise, I'm thinking about the digital divide here in Southeast Asia. Not everyone has cutting-edge tech or stable internet access, you know? It'll be a proper challenge ensuring everyone gets that "bespoke" experience. Definitely something I'll be mulling over more.
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