- Young people turn to flip phones to disconnect from social media and protect their mental health
- Flip phones have become a vintage and trendy accessory, inspired by the aesthetics of the 2000s
- They are available at affordable prices from brands like Nokia, Motorola, TCL or Verizon
If you thought flip phones were a relic of the past, think again. Generation Z, born after 1996, is increasingly attracted to these simple and practical devices, which allow them to free themselves from the grip of smartphones and social networks.
In the American media, articles with testimonials are multiplying. Young people are using flip phones to reduce their screen time, reconnect with their loved ones and preserve their sanity. Some even claim that these phones bring them more happiness and serenity.
“I wanted to gain a sense of being more connected with my friends and family. And then I also wanted to reduce my screen time”says Fjolla Arifi, a 23-year-old journalist who tested a flip phone for a week pour Buzzfeed.
“We realize that all the problems we have at a party, everything that makes us cry, everything that gives us a bad time, comes from our phone”, said a TikTok user@skzzolno, who only takes her flip phone with her when she hangs out with her friends.
Flip phones have also become a vintage and trendy object, reminiscent of the aesthetics of the 2000s. On TikTok, Instagram or YouTube, there are many videos of young people unboxing, personalizing or using their flip phones, praising the retro charm and the fun side of these devices.
Some are even inspired by celebrities like Camila Cabello or Dove Cameron, who recently showed their preference for flip phones. “I am part of the flip phone revolution”tweeted singer Camila Cabello last Thursday, posing with a TCL phone. “Maybe I can write the credits song.”
Are flip phones just a fad or a real alternative to smartphones? Hard to say for now. But one thing is certain: Generation Z seems ready to reverse the trend and question technological habits.
The flip phone, the ultimate digital detox accessory
This phenomenon of returning to flip phones is part of a broader trend of digital detox, or digital detox in French. The idea is not to completely disconnect but to take a break from using screens and connected tools, to get rid of hyperconnection and its negative effects on health. According to experts, digital detox can have many benefits, such as reduce chronic stress, improve sleeppromote concentration, stimulate creativity or strengthen social ties .
To try the adventure of digital detox, all you need to do is adopt a few good habits, such as turning off your phone at night, limiting the time spent on social networks, favoring outdoor activities or setting aside screen-free moments in the day. The idea is to regain control over your digital consumption and reconnect with yourself and others.
According to a survey conducted by BVA Group, the French spend an average of 4h22 per day in front of screens (excluding work). Nearly two-thirds of French people now admit to being dependent on their connected tools, and a third totally dependent.
