The Return to Dumb Phones

Smart phones can accomplish so much nowadays that it appears their functionality as actual phones, although a foregone conclusion, is beside the point. Their ever-expanding offering of apps and abilities evidently appeals to those who grew up corded and using party lines — those for whom old-world conditioning sustains excitement over such novelties.

There appears, however, to be a contingent of smartphone users who have grown tired of the constant promise of something slightly better — consumers keen instead on something radically different, even if that change means regress.

So-called dumb phones are apparently on the ascent as an alternative, no longer just the go-to for geriatrics, drug dealers, and others whose lifestyle choices might precipitate the need for a cheap, basic, and possibly disposable cellular device.

Brian Roemmele, the president of Multiplex Magazine, recently noted that the "rise of the massive popularity of 'dumb phones' and flip phones with the 14-25 age group has taken off. So much so that they are on back order at many stores."