Children’s 2050 predictions span AI, space settlement and floating homes

The New York Times interviewed 10-year-old children about their views of 2050. Their speculative predictions ranged from a future dominated by AI and robots—including service jobs—to fears of war and a possible World War III.

Other children imagined brain sensors or chips sending thoughts directly into applications, and people being paid to move to or colonize space as population grows. They also predicted new ways to choose political leaders and the possible discovery of aliens.

The ideas extended to purple apples and other new crops, instruments made from natural materials such as potatoes, and pink floating homes with slides and trampolines. The collection combined optimism with darker scenarios rather than presenting established forecasts.