Rediscovering "Dumb" Gadgets

In a world where smartphones do almost everything, many young people are ditching “smart” devices for simple, dedicated gadgets. It’s not about nostalgia. Most of them never used these gadgets when they were new. Instead, they see a unique value that these old technologies bring in today’s hyper-connected world.

Why Go Backwards?

During the mid-2000s, smartphones began evolving into all-in-one devices. They let you talk, text, stream, and scroll. But this also meant that they demanded constant attention. Notifications, social media feeds, and endless ads became part of everyday life. Today, many are pushing back. They are rediscovering gadgets that don’t have “smart” capabilities, which gives them more control and focus.

The Rise of Simple Gadgets

Young people are picking up devices that perform one task and do it well. Here are a few examples:

MP3 Players

Instead of using a phone for music, some are going back to dedicated music players. The iPod Classic is a favourite, often modified with modern storage. With no notifications, it allows for distraction-free listening.

Flip Phones

Basic mobile phones are making a comeback. They are perfect for texts and calls but don’t have the addictive pull of apps. People report feeling less stressed and more present.

Film Cameras

Digital photography is convenient, but using a film camera slows down the process. It forces you to be more mindful and deliberate with your shots, a refreshing change in a world of instant filters and mass sharing.

More Control, Less Stress

Research backs up this trend. Jack Adams, a PhD researcher, wrote about the benefits of using simpler technologies. His 2024 thesis, The Role of Agency in Experiences with Retro-Technology and the Implications for Psychological Wellbeing, shows how old-school gadgets give people a sense of control and satisfaction. Adams argues that today’s digital tools often automate so much that people lose their sense of personal agency. Retro-tech, on the other hand, requires effort and active engagement.

Jack Adams’ research dives into several key psychological benefits of Retro-Tech:

Autonomy

When you use a retro gadget, you make all the decisions. For instance, a film camera won't automatically focus or adjust settings. This gives the user a sense of mastery over the device, boosting confidence.

Competence

Using older technology often requires learning skills. Setting up a record player or fixing a typewriter isn’t simple. But learning these skills can give a feeling of accomplishment and self-sufficiency.

Community and Connection

People passionate about retro technology often join enthusiast groups. They exchange tips, share collections, and create a sense of belonging. It’s a social experience that goes beyond digital “likes.”

Mindfulness and Flow

Adams highlights that using retro-tech often leads to mindfulness. The process of playing a vinyl record or writing on a typewriter demands focus, creating a flow state where you become fully immersed in the activity. This level of attention can reduce stress and promote mental well-being.

Creativity and Problem-Solving

Retro technologies often have limitations that inspire creativity. For example, editing photos from a film camera or composing music on an older synthesizer forces the user to think outside the box and find innovative solutions. This constraint-driven creativity can lead to fulfilling, enjoyable experiences.

Sensory and Tactile Satisfaction

Modern devices are mostly flat screens with digital interfaces. In contrast, retro technologies offer a tactile experience. The feel of turning the dial on a rotary phone or hearing the click of a Polaroid camera provides sensory satisfaction that’s hard to replicate in the digital world.

Balancing Convenience with Active Participation

Adams also argues that modern technologies tend to prioritise convenience, often turning the user into a passive participant. This passive interaction leads to lower psychological engagement. Retro-tech, however, requires the user to be more involved. Whether it’s adjusting the settings on a film camera or choosing records to play on a turntable, these activities involve active decision-making, which contributes to a greater sense of personal agency.

The Cyclical Nature of Technology: Old Ideas, New Relevance

Technology evolves in cycles. The Technology Adoption Curve shows how new ideas spread over time, but trends often come back around. As modern needs change, old technologies can find new life. For example, vinyl records made a huge comeback for their “authentic” sound quality. Now, a similar resurgence is happening in the world of music production with trackers.

Trackers are digital music tools that were popular in the 1980s and 90s. They let musicians sequence music using a grid-like, programming-based interface. Today, devices like the Polyend Tracker+, Polyend Tracker Mini, and Dirtywave M8 have reinvented these systems with modern twists. They offer portability and power while keeping the unique workflow that older tracker systems had.

Human-Centred Design: Simplicity That Fits Our Lives

The shift back to “dumb gadgets” isn’t just about turning away from modern technology, it’s about creating a healthier relationship with the tools we use. This is where human-centred design plays a crucial role. It focuses on making technology work for people by prioritising their needs, behaviours, and emotional experiences.

Many modern gadgets are overloaded with features designed to capture attention rather than solve real problems. By contrast, human-centred design strips away unnecessary complexity. For example, a flip phone embodies this principle by being designed purely for calls and texts. It doesn’t overwhelm the user with notifications or apps. The simplicity is intentional, it meets the need for communication without the distraction of extra features.

This design philosophy reminds us that good technology doesn’t have to be “smart” to be valuable. A well-designed “dumb” gadget fits into your life seamlessly, offering utility without demanding constant engagement. This focus on usability and simplicity is what makes retro tech so appealing today. It aligns with the desire to be more present, less stressed, and more in control of how we interact with technology. Now multi-pourpose smart technology can meet our needs, however it needs to respect our autonomy and our attention.

Want to learn more about Human-Centered Design

Value Over Convenience

Many young people aren’t motivated by nostalgia, unlike older generations who may remember these gadgets fondly. Instead, they’re finding practical reasons to use these devices:

Avoiding Distractions

A digital detox isn’t always easy, but simple gadgets can help. When your phone is just a phone, there’s nothing to scroll endlessly. This can be a huge boost to productivity and mental focus. Without constant notifications, people find they are more present in daily life and less anxious.

Reducing Your Digital Footprint

Using basic, non-smart gadgets also significantly reduces your digital footprint. Many modern apps and smart devices collect vast amounts of personal data that can be sold to third parties or used for targeted advertising. With simpler tech, you can have greater privacy and security. For instance, using a flip phone means there are no apps tracking your location or listening in on your conversations.

Cybersecurity Benefits

In a time when data breaches and hacking are common, using older technology is a practical way to protect yourself. A simple MP3 player or a classic film camera is not connected to the internet, making it impossible for hackers to access. By embracing retro-tech, you reduce the number of devices that could be potential entry points for malicious actors.

Economical Choices

Vintage tech is often more affordable. A used film camera or refurbished iPod can be cheaper than the latest smartphone, and repairs are usually simpler. You can save money by buying second-hand, and many retro devices are built to last, unlike some modern gadgets designed with planned obsolescence in mind.

Better Focus

An MP3 player doesn’t have social media apps, which means you can work or study without interruptions. This makes it easier to stay engaged with important tasks without being tempted to check notifications or emails.

Freedom from Data-Driven Advertising

By stepping away from smart devices, you also avoid the constant barrage of targeted ads. Many apps and smart devices are designed to collect data to influence your buying habits. Using non-smart gadgets allows you to take back control and resist the push to constantly consume.

The Allure of Physical and Tactile Experiences

There’s also something appealing about physical, tangible gadgets. The sound of a vinyl record playing or the feel of a Polaroid photo developing in your hand gives a sensory experience that digital tech can't match.

A Rejection of Digital Overload

Living with fewer distractions isn’t just a preference; it’s becoming a necessity. As digital overload increases, more people are finding value in the limitations of older technology. The simplicity of a flip phone or the patience needed for film photography can be a calming break from digital stress.

In a way, this trend brings a healthy balance. While the world keeps moving forward with new technology, there’s also room to rediscover older tools that still have value. Sometimes, choosing a “dumb” gadget over a smart one isn’t a step backward—it’s a way to reclaim focus, improve mental health, and enjoy life in a more intentional way.

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Rediscovering “Dumb” Gadgets: Why Young People Find Value in Old Technology