Federica Laricchia
Research expert covering the global consumer technology industry
Dumb phones - statistics & facts
In an era of constant distractions, Gen Z is rediscovering the importance of spending time away from smartphone screens and opting for older phone models, commonly referred to as “dumb phones”. These devices, also known as feature phones, are more affordable, basic mobile phones that typically feature non-touch displays, button keyboards, and minimal computing capacity. Despite their reliance on older technology, many prominent consumer electronics manufacturers have modernized them, offering improved features than decades ago, including 4G connections, user-friendly interfaces, and enhanced cameras.
Are feature phones making a comeback?
While the global feature phone market size has gradually decreased over the years due to the prevalence of smart phones, feature phones from companies such as Nokia, Samsung, and Motorola, as well as operating systems such as KaiOS, which support lighter versions of apps like WhatsApp, are making a comeback among consumers. Indeed, in a 2023 global survey, up to one-third of respondents stated that they would like to older phone models back on the market, from sliding phones to non-touchscreen phones.Why are so many young people turning to dumb phones?
Gen Z consumers have been showing nostalgia for the 2000s and a shift in preferences for what is vintage, from clothing to electronic devices, such as cameras and smartphones. The trend is popular all around the world and especially in the United States, where smartphone users are trying to limit screen time and the number of phone notifications, which may cause a number of negative effects, such as sleep deprivation, anti-social behavior, and even depression. However, while more basic feature phones are attracting consumers, whether because of the current vintage trend or the need to take a break from more sophisticated technology, dumb phones are not set to replace smartphones, of which new and advanced models will continue to be released in the future.
