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Gen Z Nearly Five Times More Likely to Plan Digital Photo Legacy

other · 2026-06-01

A new report by memory curation platform Popsa reveals a sharp generational divide in digital inheritance planning. Among 8,000 consumers surveyed across the U.K., U.S., and Europe, 41% of Generation Z respondents have made arrangements for their photos after death, compared to just 9% of those over 55. Overall, 75% of people in the U.K. have no plan for their phone-stored photos, and only 11% have a detailed plan. The study, part of Popsa's The Memory Economy report, highlights that nearly half (47%) of respondents store up to 20,000 photos on their phone. Emotionally, 37% would prioritize saving a physical photo album from a burning building, and 26% view their photos as deeply private. Popsa founder Liam Houghton notes a behavioral shift among younger generations, who increasingly see digital legacy as part of modern adulthood.

Key facts

  • 41% of Gen Z have made arrangements for their photos after death.
  • 9% of those over 55 have made arrangements.
  • 75% of people in the U.K. have no plan for their phone-stored photos.
  • Only 11% of respondents have a clear, detailed plan.
  • 47% of respondents store up to 20,000 photos on their phone.
  • 37% would prioritize saving a physical photo album from a burning building.
  • 26% describe their photos as deeply private, like a diary.
  • The report surveyed 8,000 consumers across the U.K., U.S., and Europe.

Entities

Institutions

  • Popsa

Locations

  • United Kingdom
  • United States
  • Europe

Sources