Why is Gen Z Switching from Smartphones to Dumbphones?

For Gen Z, smartphones have always been a part of life. Yet, a surprising trend is emerging: a growing number of Gen Z'ers are trading in their smartphones for "dumbphones"—basic phones with limited functionality. But why is that? Why are people getting back to the old basic phones? 

Well, according to the Los Angeles Times, people born in and after 1996 have an average watch time of staggering 7.2 hours per day which is one of the major reason for this push towards the dumbphones. 

Digital Presence:

The digital age has ushered in an era of constant connectivity, with information and interaction available at our fingertips 24/7. While this interconnectedness offers undeniable benefits, it comes at a hidden cost – a toll on our mental and physical well-being. This is particularly true for Gen Z, the generation who've grown up with smartphones as a constant companion.

According to the World Economic Forum’s 2023 Growth Summit, “excessive screen time has been linked to poor physical and mental health.”

Further, National Institutes of Health mentions: “Musculoskeletal problems associated with cell phones ranged from 1% to 67.8%. A systematic literature review reported a high frequency of musculoskeletal problems among adults related to the use of mobile devices ranging between 8–89%, which includes, back pain, and eye strains. This is due to postural instability, poor exercise to associated muscles, excessive neck movements or hand overuse, and strain due to staring with the eye leading to musculoskeletal problems.”

Focus and Productivity:

Smartphones have become an undeniable extension of ourselves. But with this constant connection comes a potential pitfall: the loss of productivity. The endless stream of notifications, the never ending of social media feeds, and the constant buzz in our pockets all conspire to steal our focus and derail our productivity plans.

The Nature Journal research backs up this concern. Studies have shown that even the passive presence of a smartphone, even when silenced and put away, can negatively impact our ability to concentrate and complete tasks. This is because the mere knowledge that a notification might pop up is enough to trigger a subconscious loop of checking and anticipation, breaking our focus and hindering our cognitive performance.

Forbes mentions: “The average person works only three minutes at a time before getting distracted. Three minutes before checking an email, looking at the ding on their watch or phone, or someone walking up to their desk with a really quick question. But after being interrupted, did you know it takes an average of 23 minutes to get back to that original task? And 23% of that interrupted work is not even resumed in the same day.”

This staggering data is the reason why Gen Z are trying to resort to dumb phones. 

Privacy Concerns:

Gen Z, is undoubtedly the most digitally active generation. However, this constant connection comes with a hidden vulnerability which is a heightened risk of data breaches and online threats.

Several factors contribute to Gen Z's increased vulnerability:

• Digital Natives, Security Novices:  Gen Z may be comfortable with technology, but they often lack the awareness and experience to recognise and avoid online dangers. Cybersecurity literacy hasn't always kept pace with technological advancements, leaving them susceptible to phishing scams, malware attacks, and social engineering tactics.
• Sharing is Caring (a Little Too Much):  Gen Z tends to be more open and comfortable sharing personal information online. This can prove as a double-edged sword. While fostering a sense of community, it also creates opportunities for data breaches and identity theft. Publicly available information on social media can be exploited by scammers or even used to create targeted attacks.
• The Dark Side of Convenience:  Gen Z readily adopts new technologies and apps, often without fully understanding the privacy implications. They may readily grant permissions or agree to terms of service without carefully scrutinising the potential risks involved.

The Kai Zhuang Case: A stark Reminder

The recent cyber kidnapping of Kai Zhuang serves as a chilling example of the vulnerabilities Gen Z faces. 

READ| What is Cyber Kidnapping? Know All About the Infamous Term to Stay Safe

A 2022 Delloite survey mentions: “Consumers are increasingly concerned about being “hacked and tracked” through their tech devices. Nearly six in 10 respondents to our survey worry that their devices are vulnerable to security breaches (for example, hackers stealing personal data), and the same number are concerned that organizations or people could track them through their devices.”

Is the Dumbphone Trend Here to Stay?

While the complete abandonment of smartphones seems unlikely, the rise of the "dumbphone movement" signifies a growing desire for balance. It's likely that Gen Z will continue to embrace technology, but with a more mindful and intentional approach. We might see a future where people use a combination of smartphones and dumbphones, depending on their needs and situations.

However, this trend could also push tech companies to develop features that promote well-being and offer users more control over their digital experience.