Here we are, with a growing demographic of Aussies choosing to ditch their high-tech iPhones and Androids for retro 'dumb phones'.

Yes, you read that right. The apparent answer to today’s smartphones is entering the scene.

But why would anyone intentionally choose a rewind to yesterday's tech?

Let’s find out, and—who knows—you might even be tempted to embrace the low-tech life too!

Dubbed 'dumb phones', these technological dinosaurs might seem outdated to some, but they prove that old is gold.

They bring to the table just the essentials—calling and texting, while happily waving goodbye to modern, mind-occupying amenities like the internet, apps and camera.

The trend of using retro phones has gained popularity as a nostalgic throwback to simpler times. Image by girlwithredhat from Unsplash

Dumb phone sales have soared over the last year, making up a surprisingly hefty 8.2 per of the Aussie mobile market. It's not just about preference; there’s a strong implication about why this trend is occurring.

With research revealing that children who spend more than two hours a day on smart devices are at a higher risk of anxiety and stress, the need to switch to simpler technologies has never been more attractive.

Beyond that, these devices hardly produce the infamous blue light, which disrupts the melatonin production that can impact essential health factors like blood pressure, insulin resistance and, of course, the sleep we need to have energy.

Dumb phones also help reduce exposure to cyberbullying, potential predators, and the risk of privacy breaches, a growing concern in today’s digital world.

Even more surprising, these handsets are becoming trendy on social platforms amongst younger generations, who openly confess their anxiety linked to spending hours on their smart devices.

Dark Horse Agency Director and Digital Expert Nicole Jameson emphasises this, saying, 'We do think there's a big part of the community who are just sick of being so contactable.'

Dr Yvonne Parry from Flinders University echoed these sentiments. 'Lots of adults are actually choosing to go back to the dumb phone worldwide because then they feel they're in control of the phone, rather than the phone being in control of them and their life.' she said.

These vintage-inspired devices offer a charming blend of old-fashioned aesthetics and modern functionality, attracting individuals seeking a unique and stylish communication experience. Image by rayson tjr from unsplash

And perhaps there's a lesson for us all there.

Fortunately, niche phones are available on the market, such as the BigPurplePhone, specifically designed for the mature demographic.

Additionally, the G-mee phone is created to be safer for kids, allowing parents to monitor apps and set usage limits.

These models cater to this growing demand for a simpler, safer phone experience.

The best bit? Retro phones can cost as little as $50, compared with thousands for the top-of-the-range smartphones we’re all too familiar with. That's a 'blast from the past' we can all appreciate.

Key Takeaways

• 'Dumb phones', or simple, internet-free mobile phones, are rising in popularity among Australian parents and adults wanting more time offline.
• Sales of these retro phones have doubled in the past year, making up 8.2 per cent of the mobile phone market in Australia.
• Research shows these phones help reduce the risk of children developing anxiety or stress from spending too much time online and protect them from online bullying and predators.
• Options like the BigPurplePhone for seniors and the G-mee phone for children, which allows parental controls on apps and set time limits, are becoming more popular.

Sure, the switch to 'dumb' phones might come with its challenges, such as lack of GPS or limited entertainment options, but the trade-off for mental peace, concentrating abilities, and healthier living might be worth it.

Members, what are your thoughts on the growing trend of people opting for retro 'dumb phones’? Do you believe it's a necessary step for a digital detox? Share your opinions with us!

 

[Wandiwa]

If your gonna buy one make sure it's 4G or better still 5G. The 3G system is heading towards extinction.

 

[annobie]

Here we are, with a growing demographic of Aussies choosing to ditch their high-tech iPhones and Androids for retro 'dumb phones'.

Yes, you read that right. The apparent answer to today’s smartphones is entering the scene.

But why would anyone intentionally choose a rewind to yesterday's tech?

Let’s find out, and—who knows—you might even be tempted to embrace the low-tech life too!

Dubbed 'dumb phones', these technological dinosaurs might seem outdated to some, but they prove that old is gold.

They bring to the table just the essentials—calling and texting, while happily waving goodbye to modern, mind-occupying amenities like the internet, apps and camera.

View attachment 25442

The trend of using retro phones has gained popularity as a nostalgic throwback to simpler times. Image by girlwithredhat from Unsplash

Dumb phone sales have soared over the last year, making up a surprisingly hefty 8.2 per of the Aussie mobile market. It's not just about preference; there’s a strong implication about why this trend is occurring.

With research revealing that children who spend more than two hours a day on smart devices are at a higher risk of anxiety and stress, the need to switch to simpler technologies has never been more attractive.

Beyond that, these devices hardly produce the infamous blue light, which disrupts the melatonin production that can impact essential health factors like blood pressure, insulin resistance and, of course, the sleep we need to have energy.

Dumb phones also help reduce exposure to cyberbullying, potential predators, and the risk of privacy breaches, a growing concern in today’s digital world.

Even more surprising, these handsets are becoming trendy on social platforms amongst younger generations, who openly confess their anxiety linked to spending hours on their smart devices.

Dark Horse Agency Director and Digital Expert Nicole Jameson emphasises this, saying, 'We do think there's a big part of the community who are just sick of being so contactable.'

Dr Yvonne Parry from Flinders University echoed these sentiments. 'Lots of adults are actually choosing to go back to the dumb phone worldwide because then they feel they're in control of the phone, rather than the phone being in control of them and their life.' she said.

View attachment 25443

These vintage-inspired devices offer a charming blend of old-fashioned aesthetics and modern functionality, attracting individuals seeking a unique and stylish communication experience. Image by rayson tjr from unsplash

And perhaps there's a lesson for us all there.

Fortunately, niche phones are available on the market, such as the BigPurplePhone, specifically designed for the mature demographic.

Additionally, the G-mee phone is created to be safer for kids, allowing parents to monitor apps and set usage limits.

These models cater to this growing demand for a simpler, safer phone experience.

The best bit? Retro phones can cost as little as $50, compared with thousands for the top-of-the-range smartphones we’re all too familiar with. That's a 'blast from the past' we can all appreciate.

Key Takeaways

• 'Dumb phones', or simple, internet-free mobile phones, are rising in popularity among Australian parents and adults wanting more time offline.
• Sales of these retro phones have doubled in the past year, making up 8.2 per cent of the mobile phone market in Australia.
• Research shows these phones help reduce the risk of children developing anxiety or stress from spending too much time online and protect them from online bullying and predators.
• Options like the BigPurplePhone for seniors and the G-mee phone for children, which allows parental controls on apps and set time limits, are becoming more popular.

Sure, the switch to 'dumb' phones might come with its challenges, such as lack of GPS or limited entertainment options, but the trade-off for mental peace, concentrating abilities, and healthier living might be worth it.

Members, what are your thoughts on the growing trend of people opting for retro 'dumb phones’? Do you believe it's a necessary step for a digital detox? Share your opinions with us!

I have been thinking along the same lines, but, I would miss the camera and the GPS as these I use alot. Hate being tied to the phone and have actually turned my phone to night time mode to stop the constant pinging fr Facebook etc. I refuse to do any sort of phone banking, too risky.

 

[Ringdragon]

Here we are, with a growing demographic of Aussies choosing to ditch their high-tech iPhones and Androids for retro 'dumb phones'.

Yes, you read that right. The apparent answer to today’s smartphones is entering the scene.

But why would anyone intentionally choose a rewind to yesterday's tech?

Let’s find out, and—who knows—you might even be tempted to embrace the low-tech life too!

Dubbed 'dumb phones', these technological dinosaurs might seem outdated to some, but they prove that old is gold.

They bring to the table just the essentials—calling and texting, while happily waving goodbye to modern, mind-occupying amenities like the internet, apps and camera.

View attachment 25442

The trend of using retro phones has gained popularity as a nostalgic throwback to simpler times. Image by girlwithredhat from Unsplash

Dumb phone sales have soared over the last year, making up a surprisingly hefty 8.2 per of the Aussie mobile market. It's not just about preference; there’s a strong implication about why this trend is occurring.

With research revealing that children who spend more than two hours a day on smart devices are at a higher risk of anxiety and stress, the need to switch to simpler technologies has never been more attractive.

Beyond that, these devices hardly produce the infamous blue light, which disrupts the melatonin production that can impact essential health factors like blood pressure, insulin resistance and, of course, the sleep we need to have energy.

Dumb phones also help reduce exposure to cyberbullying, potential predators, and the risk of privacy breaches, a growing concern in today’s digital world.

Even more surprising, these handsets are becoming trendy on social platforms amongst younger generations, who openly confess their anxiety linked to spending hours on their smart devices.

Dark Horse Agency Director and Digital Expert Nicole Jameson emphasises this, saying, 'We do think there's a big part of the community who are just sick of being so contactable.'

Dr Yvonne Parry from Flinders University echoed these sentiments. 'Lots of adults are actually choosing to go back to the dumb phone worldwide because then they feel they're in control of the phone, rather than the phone being in control of them and their life.' she said.

View attachment 25443

These vintage-inspired devices offer a charming blend of old-fashioned aesthetics and modern functionality, attracting individuals seeking a unique and stylish communication experience. Image by rayson tjr from unsplash

And perhaps there's a lesson for us all there.

Fortunately, niche phones are available on the market, such as the BigPurplePhone, specifically designed for the mature demographic.

Additionally, the G-mee phone is created to be safer for kids, allowing parents to monitor apps and set usage limits.

These models cater to this growing demand for a simpler, safer phone experience.

The best bit? Retro phones can cost as little as $50, compared with thousands for the top-of-the-range smartphones we’re all too familiar with. That's a 'blast from the past' we can all appreciate.

Key Takeaways

• 'Dumb phones', or simple, internet-free mobile phones, are rising in popularity among Australian parents and adults wanting more time offline.
• Sales of these retro phones have doubled in the past year, making up 8.2 per cent of the mobile phone market in Australia.
• Research shows these phones help reduce the risk of children developing anxiety or stress from spending too much time online and protect them from online bullying and predators.
• Options like the BigPurplePhone for seniors and the G-mee phone for children, which allows parental controls on apps and set time limits, are becoming more popular.

Sure, the switch to 'dumb' phones might come with its challenges, such as lack of GPS or limited entertainment options, but the trade-off for mental peace, concentrating abilities, and healthier living might be worth it.

Members, what are your thoughts on the growing trend of people opting for retro 'dumb phones’? Do you believe it's a necessary step for a digital detox? Share your opinions with us!

Smart phones can be 'dumb-downed'. Disable/remove the apps that are causing the anxiety and stress. If children have phones there should be an 'administrator' function where the parents can set up a 'safe' phone for their children. This should be done in conference with the children and parents to come up with an agreement on what level of 'dumbness' the phone requires. It's not an attempt to over-rule, but more a concerned effort to protect our children. Co-operation and communication.

 

[Suzanne rose]

No I love my smart phone, it's like a hand held computer , in fact I haven't used my computer in ages .

 

[Catherines]

Don’t have any apps on my smart phone except the messaging and calling necessities. Don’t need them, so I don’t have to constantly have it near me to ‘get my attention’. I turn it on to silent at night so don’t get disturbed during my sleep. Landline extension in bedroom for urgent calls from any of my children if they need us at night. Simple use for me with my mobile.

 

[SGH]

I have been thinking along the same lines, but, I would miss the camera and the GPS as these I use alot. Hate being tied to the phone and have actually turned my phone to night time mode to stop the constant pinging fr Facebook etc. I refuse to do any sort of phone banking, too risky.

Innovations sells a dumb phone with a camera and big numbers for seniors

 

[Isis]

Here we are, with a growing demographic of Aussies choosing to ditch their high-tech iPhones and Androids for retro 'dumb phones'.

Yes, you read that right. The apparent answer to today’s smartphones is entering the scene.

But why would anyone intentionally choose a rewind to yesterday's tech?

Let’s find out, and—who knows—you might even be tempted to embrace the low-tech life too!

Dubbed 'dumb phones', these technological dinosaurs might seem outdated to some, but they prove that old is gold.

They bring to the table just the essentials—calling and texting, while happily waving goodbye to modern, mind-occupying amenities like the internet, apps and camera.

View attachment 25442

The trend of using retro phones has gained popularity as a nostalgic throwback to simpler times. Image by girlwithredhat from Unsplash

Dumb phone sales have soared over the last year, making up a surprisingly hefty 8.2 per of the Aussie mobile market. It's not just about preference; there’s a strong implication about why this trend is occurring.

With research revealing that children who spend more than two hours a day on smart devices are at a higher risk of anxiety and stress, the need to switch to simpler technologies has never been more attractive.

Beyond that, these devices hardly produce the infamous blue light, which disrupts the melatonin production that can impact essential health factors like blood pressure, insulin resistance and, of course, the sleep we need to have energy.

Dumb phones also help reduce exposure to cyberbullying, potential predators, and the risk of privacy breaches, a growing concern in today’s digital world.

Even more surprising, these handsets are becoming trendy on social platforms amongst younger generations, who openly confess their anxiety linked to spending hours on their smart devices.

Dark Horse Agency Director and Digital Expert Nicole Jameson emphasises this, saying, 'We do think there's a big part of the community who are just sick of being so contactable.'

Dr Yvonne Parry from Flinders University echoed these sentiments. 'Lots of adults are actually choosing to go back to the dumb phone worldwide because then they feel they're in control of the phone, rather than the phone being in control of them and their life.' she said.

View attachment 25443

These vintage-inspired devices offer a charming blend of old-fashioned aesthetics and modern functionality, attracting individuals seeking a unique and stylish communication experience. Image by rayson tjr from unsplash

And perhaps there's a lesson for us all there.

Fortunately, niche phones are available on the market, such as the BigPurplePhone, specifically designed for the mature demographic.

Additionally, the G-mee phone is created to be safer for kids, allowing parents to monitor apps and set usage limits.

These models cater to this growing demand for a simpler, safer phone experience.

The best bit? Retro phones can cost as little as $50, compared with thousands for the top-of-the-range smartphones we’re all too familiar with. That's a 'blast from the past' we can all appreciate.

Key Takeaways

• 'Dumb phones', or simple, internet-free mobile phones, are rising in popularity among Australian parents and adults wanting more time offline.
• Sales of these retro phones have doubled in the past year, making up 8.2 per cent of the mobile phone market in Australia.
• Research shows these phones help reduce the risk of children developing anxiety or stress from spending too much time online and protect them from online bullying and predators.
• Options like the BigPurplePhone for seniors and the G-mee phone for children, which allows parental controls on apps and set time limits, are becoming more popular.

Sure, the switch to 'dumb' phones might come with its challenges, such as lack of GPS or limited entertainment options, but the trade-off for mental peace, concentrating abilities, and healthier living might be worth it.

Members, what are your thoughts on the growing trend of people opting for retro 'dumb phones’? Do you believe it's a necessary step for a digital detox? Share your opinions with us!

I love my smart phone, I pad , smart watch, you name it and I want it, and I am 83. Yes there are scammers, but that to is a learning curve and if in doubt about something delete delete.

 

[Jest]

Here we are, with a growing demographic of Aussies choosing to ditch their high-tech iPhones and Androids for retro 'dumb phones'.

Yes, you read that right. The apparent answer to today’s smartphones is entering the scene.

But why would anyone intentionally choose a rewind to yesterday's tech?

Let’s find out, and—who knows—you might even be tempted to embrace the low-tech life too!

Dubbed 'dumb phones', these technological dinosaurs might seem outdated to some, but they prove that old is gold.

They bring to the table just the essentials—calling and texting, while happily waving goodbye to modern, mind-occupying amenities like the internet, apps and camera.

View attachment 25442

The trend of using retro phones has gained popularity as a nostalgic throwback to simpler times. Image by girlwithredhat from Unsplash

Dumb phone sales have soared over the last year, making up a surprisingly hefty 8.2 per of the Aussie mobile market. It's not just about preference; there’s a strong implication about why this trend is occurring.

With research revealing that children who spend more than two hours a day on smart devices are at a higher risk of anxiety and stress, the need to switch to simpler technologies has never been more attractive.

Beyond that, these devices hardly produce the infamous blue light, which disrupts the melatonin production that can impact essential health factors like blood pressure, insulin resistance and, of course, the sleep we need to have energy.

Dumb phones also help reduce exposure to cyberbullying, potential predators, and the risk of privacy breaches, a growing concern in today’s digital world.

Even more surprising, these handsets are becoming trendy on social platforms amongst younger generations, who openly confess their anxiety linked to spending hours on their smart devices.

Dark Horse Agency Director and Digital Expert Nicole Jameson emphasises this, saying, 'We do think there's a big part of the community who are just sick of being so contactable.'

Dr Yvonne Parry from Flinders University echoed these sentiments. 'Lots of adults are actually choosing to go back to the dumb phone worldwide because then they feel they're in control of the phone, rather than the phone being in control of them and their life.' she said.

View attachment 25443

These vintage-inspired devices offer a charming blend of old-fashioned aesthetics and modern functionality, attracting individuals seeking a unique and stylish communication experience. Image by rayson tjr from unsplash

And perhaps there's a lesson for us all there.

Fortunately, niche phones are available on the market, such as the BigPurplePhone, specifically designed for the mature demographic.

Additionally, the G-mee phone is created to be safer for kids, allowing parents to monitor apps and set usage limits.

These models cater to this growing demand for a simpler, safer phone experience.

The best bit? Retro phones can cost as little as $50, compared with thousands for the top-of-the-range smartphones we’re all too familiar with. That's a 'blast from the past' we can all appreciate.

Key Takeaways

• 'Dumb phones', or simple, internet-free mobile phones, are rising in popularity among Australian parents and adults wanting more time offline.
• Sales of these retro phones have doubled in the past year, making up 8.2 per cent of the mobile phone market in Australia.
• Research shows these phones help reduce the risk of children developing anxiety or stress from spending too much time online and protect them from online bullying and predators.
• Options like the BigPurplePhone for seniors and the G-mee phone for children, which allows parental controls on apps and set time limits, are becoming more popular.

Sure, the switch to 'dumb' phones might come with its challenges, such as lack of GPS or limited entertainment options, but the trade-off for mental peace, concentrating abilities, and healthier living might be worth it.

Members, what are your thoughts on the growing trend of people opting for retro 'dumb phones’? Do you believe it's a necessary step for a digital detox? Share your opinions with us!

good luck getting kids to change.

 

[Jest]

I love my smart phone, I pad , smart watch, you name it and I want it, and I am 83. Yes there are scammers, but that to is a learning curve and if in doubt about something delete delete.

smart lady. i agree.

 

[Rob44]

I use a retro land-line. Solved that problem. What's the point of a mobile phone apart from making billionaires out of millionaires who want to sell you digital junk every 6 months?

 

[chips]

I only have a dumb phone and it is only used as an emergency it is never turned on unless I need to use it when I am out I have a land line and everyone knows to reach me on that, but I still get scam phone calls on my land line.

 

[Teddy10]

Here we are, with a growing demographic of Aussies choosing to ditch their high-tech iPhones and Androids for retro 'dumb phones'.

Yes, you read that right. The apparent answer to today’s smartphones is entering the scene.

But why would anyone intentionally choose a rewind to yesterday's tech?

Let’s find out, and—who knows—you might even be tempted to embrace the low-tech life too!

Dubbed 'dumb phones', these technological dinosaurs might seem outdated to some, but they prove that old is gold.

They bring to the table just the essentials—calling and texting, while happily waving goodbye to modern, mind-occupying amenities like the internet, apps and camera.

View attachment 25442

The trend of using retro phones has gained popularity as a nostalgic throwback to simpler times. Image by girlwithredhat from Unsplash

Dumb phone sales have soared over the last year, making up a surprisingly hefty 8.2 per of the Aussie mobile market. It's not just about preference; there’s a strong implication about why this trend is occurring.

With research revealing that children who spend more than two hours a day on smart devices are at a higher risk of anxiety and stress, the need to switch to simpler technologies has never been more attractive.

Beyond that, these devices hardly produce the infamous blue light, which disrupts the melatonin production that can impact essential health factors like blood pressure, insulin resistance and, of course, the sleep we need to have energy.

Dumb phones also help reduce exposure to cyberbullying, potential predators, and the risk of privacy breaches, a growing concern in today’s digital world.

Even more surprising, these handsets are becoming trendy on social platforms amongst younger generations, who openly confess their anxiety linked to spending hours on their smart devices.

Dark Horse Agency Director and Digital Expert Nicole Jameson emphasises this, saying, 'We do think there's a big part of the community who are just sick of being so contactable.'

Dr Yvonne Parry from Flinders University echoed these sentiments. 'Lots of adults are actually choosing to go back to the dumb phone worldwide because then they feel they're in control of the phone, rather than the phone being in control of them and their life.' she said.

View attachment 25443

These vintage-inspired devices offer a charming blend of old-fashioned aesthetics and modern functionality, attracting individuals seeking a unique and stylish communication experience. Image by rayson tjr from unsplash

And perhaps there's a lesson for us all there.

Fortunately, niche phones are available on the market, such as the BigPurplePhone, specifically designed for the mature demographic.

Additionally, the G-mee phone is created to be safer for kids, allowing parents to monitor apps and set usage limits.

These models cater to this growing demand for a simpler, safer phone experience.

The best bit? Retro phones can cost as little as $50, compared with thousands for the top-of-the-range smartphones we’re all too familiar with. That's a 'blast from the past' we can all appreciate.

Key Takeaways

• 'Dumb phones', or simple, internet-free mobile phones, are rising in popularity among Australian parents and adults wanting more time offline.
• Sales of these retro phones have doubled in the past year, making up 8.2 per cent of the mobile phone market in Australia.
• Research shows these phones help reduce the risk of children developing anxiety or stress from spending too much time online and protect them from online bullying and predators.
• Options like the BigPurplePhone for seniors and the G-mee phone for children, which allows parental controls on apps and set time limits, are becoming more popular.

Sure, the switch to 'dumb' phones might come with its challenges, such as lack of GPS or limited entertainment options, but the trade-off for mental peace, concentrating abilities, and healthier living might be worth it.

Members, what are your thoughts on the growing trend of people opting for retro 'dumb phones’? Do you believe it's a necessary step for a digital detox? Share your opinions with us!

 

[Rob44]

Smart phones can be 'dumb-downed'. Disable/remove the apps that are causing the anxiety and stress. If children have phones there should be an 'administrator' function where the parents can set up a 'safe' phone for their children. This should be done in conference with the children and parents to come up with an agreement on what level of 'dumbness' the phone requires. It's not an attempt to over-rule, but more a concerned effort to protect our children. Co-operation and communication.

In conference with your kids about phone apps? Tell them what they can have IF they are to have you pay their mobile phone costs. They might learn to understand the value of a few things, including learning good manners to their seniors, which includes their school teachers.

 

[Teddy10]

After reading that, i think it's a great idea to go back to the 'dumb' phone. Anything to keep our kids safe and take away the addiction smartphones have created. Even babies in prams are addicted, anything for peace says mum. I love the technology that comes with smartphones, just like everyone else, but the thought of being scammed and losing money overtakes the convenience of smartphones. Good on the people who chose to go 'dumb', i actually think you are the brightest ones of them all.