They say that everything comes back into fashion eventually–an anecdote that extends beyond the runway, potentially all the way into the world of personal technology. When it comes to the items that we use to connect, work, and find entertainment, new releases are a regular occurrence, giving consumers more reasons to increase their screen time.
And yet, some Americans choose not to take the bait, preferring instead a simpler, less-distraction-laden experience. With so much evolving in the tech space, CivicScience has the most up-to-date figures on Americans’ experience of personal technology in 2025.
Currently, 68% of Gen Z adults aged 18-29 with digital devices (e.g., laptop, smartphone) consider themselves at least ‘somewhat’ addicted to their devices. This is the highest percentage reported since January 2024 and outpaces all other age groups by at least nine percentage points.
As a result, it may come as no surprise that Gen Z is also the most likely age group to use “dumb devices” – electronics with limited functionality. Although stereo systems for CDs and digital cameras are the most popular of this type of technology, interest in device types varies by age.
As the data show, Gen Z adults are the most likely to own a digital camera and MP3 player. Baby Boomers are the most likely to own a flip phone and Gen X is the most likely to own a stereo system for CDs.
Take our Poll: Do you think you could switch to a flip phone for a month?
Why Swap the Smartphone
Although flip phone use is comparatively lower than that of other devices, additional data suggest that this could change in the near future. As many as 23% of consumers with a smartphone say they’re at least ‘somewhat’ likely to swap out for a flip phone, including 39% of Gen Z adult smartphone owners.
Those looking to swap out their smartphone for a flip phone have plenty of reasons to do so, but one possible reason worth noting is health. Currently, those who are ‘very’ likely to do the phone swap are also the most likely to be getting an average of 4 hours of sleep or less per night.
However, this group exercises more per week than those who are less likely to ditch the smartphone, suggesting a keener eye towards health may be a factor in opting for “dumb devices.”
A quest for emotional well-being may also be at play. Those who are ‘very’ likely to swap their smartphone for a flip phone are more likely to say that they have ‘very’ strongly felt fear and worried in the past week, than those who are less likely to do the same.
Use this Data: CivicScience clients leverage real-time data like this to discover deeper motivations of their customers, helping them tailor their approach for improved growth and retention.
Tuning into Non-Smart TVs
The world of “dumb devices” extends into the television sphere, and Americans are well aware of the potential to downsize their TVs’ capabilities. With 8% of respondents ‘very’ likely and 15% ‘somewhat’ likely to look to purchase a non-smart TV in the next six months, demand for a simplified viewing experience may be on the rise. A key obstacle facing these consumers, however, will be whether they will even be able to find any non-smart TVs on the market.
The reasons for this interest aren’t mind-blowing, but rather, practical. Forty-one percent list cost as one of their primary reasons for pursuing a dumbed-down television, while 28% cite simplicity or ease of use, and 36% say they just don’t use the other features.
Weigh In: Do you think smart TVs can replace other gadgets?
Device addiction is a very real experience. And as Americans grapple with the impact that “smart” technology has on their lives, a return to “dumb devices” is a very real option. Whether for the practicality of preferring a less complicated user experience or a bid to improve mental or physical health, it’s clear that devices with less functionality may be poised for a comeback, especially as looming tariffs may push consumers to downsize due to rising costs, whether they want to or not.
