At the start of 2026, a unique movement emerged. Social media influencers began advocating for an “analog lifestyle.” This trend encourages people to unplug from their screens and reconnect with real life.
Selly Tan from California shared her plans to print photos, read more books, and dive into hobbies away from Wi-Fi. Similarly, Rosie Okatcha from the U.K. predicted that people would trade streaming music for iPods and vinyl records. This shift seems to indicate a growing desire for authenticity and tangible experiences.
Many young people, like Lillie Beacope, a student at USC, feel overwhelmed by their constant screen time. “From noon to 5 p.m., I’m glued to my screens,” she said. It’s challenging for them to find breaks from technology in their daily routines.
According to a 2025 report from the Pew Research Center, 91% of U.S. adults own a smartphone, up from 35% in 2011. This increase highlights our deepening reliance on these devices for communication, navigation, and entertainment.
Experts like Natalia Khodayari, a researcher at UC Davis, argue that smartphones aren’t the problem—they’re tools that can be hard to manage. However, many apps are designed to keep users hooked, contributing to feelings of dissatisfaction. Dr. Anna Lembke from Stanford notes that engagement on these platforms often leads to a significant loss of time, causing unhappiness.
The COVID-19 pandemic intensified our digital dependence, as people turned to their devices for connection during lockdowns. Karen North from USC observed that many are now recognizing their compulsive need to check their phones.
Historically, efforts to unplug aren’t new. In 2010, Mintel predicted a rise in “switching off,” but the fear of missing out can make it hard to disconnect. As USC senior Maya Din pointed out, being constantly accessible can feel like a necessary part of being part of a community.
Dr. Lembke suggests that heavy digital use correlates with mental health issues, including anxiety and depression. “People are starting to connect their online lives with their well-being,” she said.
So, what sets the current “analog lifestyle” trend apart? Unlike past movements, today’s approach encourages creative activities like crafting or reading to replace screen time. This can provide a more mindful, intentional way to spend time.
A 2018 study published in the National Library of Medicine showed that participants checked their phones over 60 times a day, spending an average of 220 minutes using them. The push for an analog lifestyle appeals to those looking to create boundaries in their digital lives.
How can someone reduce their digital dependency? While there’s no single answer, small adjustments can help. Here are some suggestions:
- Keep your phone out of sight while focusing on other tasks.
- Remove distracting apps or mute unnecessary notifications.
- Trade social media scrolling for a walk, reading, or cooking.
Interestingly, the trend of seeking analog experiences is gaining traction. According to Market Research Future, the global craft supplies market is projected to grow from $42.83 billion in 2025 to $64.95 billion by 2035, reflecting the increasing interest in hands-on activities.
As this movement continues, expect to see more people finding joy in simple, offline pleasures. Embracing the analog lifestyle might offer a path to balance in our tech-saturated world.
For more insights on mental health related to digital connections, visit Columbia Psychiatry.
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digital connectivity, social media influencers, Natalia Khodayari, social media, attention span, Anna Lembke, digital devices, analog, digital world, Karen North
