Why Are People Switching To 'Dumbphones' And How Is It Helping Them

The invention of cell phones has become a boon to mankind. With the easy accessibility of the Internet, they have become a source of information, entertainment and monetary transactions. But along with the advantages, these digital devices are also responsible for various health hazards. People nowadays are hooked to their screens, scrolling endlessly on social media. This leads to vision problems, sleep disturbances and neck pain among others. However, both Gen-Z and millennials have acknowledged the ill effects of excessive screen time. To escape mobile phone addiction, they are switching to older digital alternatives aka “dumbphones”.

Dumbphones are the basic models of a cell phone which lack the advanced features of a smartphone. Used in the early 2000s, these devices served the purpose of voice calls and text messaging, minus any high-tech games, social media applications and other addictive apps. According to a report by CNBC, people are now choosing these dumbphones to escape social media. In fact, retailers in the US have witnessed a sudden surge in demand for these basic phone models as consumers are seeking less distracting devices.

A recent study by Harvard University revealed that using social networking sites triggers the same part of the brain that gets activated when consuming any addictive substance, reported BBC. This understanding of phone habits has sparked concern among the youth and millennials.

“Social media is built around FOMO (fear of missing out), so I felt I couldn’t get off it. Instantly I got Instagram and it was a downward spiral,” admitted a user as quoted by BBC. The individual added that he swapped cellphones with a simpler dumbphone. He uses it only for texts, calls, map viewing and other basic functions. From four to five hours of screen time daily, his phone usage is now 20 minutes. “Which is good because I only use it for what I need it for,” he added.

The report was also dropped on Instagram where users shared their opinions. “Nokia 3310 is the best phone, not dumb at all,” commented an individual. “Smartphones aren’t cute or gimmicky anymore. They’re addictive and invasive. It almost feels like selling your soul having one,” pointed out a person. “It’s toxic, we all see it and feel it,” agreed another.

What are your thoughts?