This is a change related to generations. If the 21st century is the information age, then the 22nd century is a new virtual generation!
It has nothing to do with status or country.
The launch of Pokémon: Virtual Generation in 2117 caused a sensation around the world! When you reach the age of 16, you can go to the virtual lobby in your region to complete various procedures and obtain your own virtual watch. Thus starting your own virtual generation!
This novel and its characters are purely fictitious. Any similarity is purely coincidental and should not be imitated.