In a world where screens are as ubiquitous as avocado toast, some Gen Z folks are on a mission to unplug and rediscover the tactile joys of retro tech. Meet London Glorfield, a 23-year-old former recording artist who remembers life before the iPhone invaded our lives like a relentless influencer.

Just five years old when the smartphone revolution kicked off, Glorfield decided he’d had enough of being glued to his screen, connecting with fans and friends but neglecting real-life joy in the process. So, he started Kickback, a retro tech brand specifically designed for his digitally-weary generation. From cozy CDs to nostalgic record players, Kickback’s mission is simple: let’s bring the good old days back, one cassette at a time.

According to the Global Wellness Summit’s Future of Wellness 2025 Report, everyone is feeling this wave of retro joy and the desire to unplug is more popular than skinny jeans at a vintage shop. This resurgence isn’t merely about being nostalgic; it’s a rebellion against our too convenient digital lives. Apparently, people are hardwired for real, tangible experiences. Who knew?

Beth McGroarty from the Global Wellness Institute explains how Gen Z craves physical interactions rather than scrolling through endless feeds. Those stats on screen time? They’re alarming, basically a lifetime spent peering at a screen that doubles as your work, social life, and entertainment hub. Unsurprisingly, many are choosing to trade that overwhelming digital noise for a peaceful stroll with a Polaroid camera or a quiet evening spinning vinyl.

Meanwhile, over at Retrospekt, Adam Fuerst and his team have been cashing in on this movement, boasting $8 million in annual sales thanks to nostalgic products like Game Boys and typewriters. Fuerst believes we’re just not meant to get rid of physical items that inject meaning and character into our lives, even if they can sometimes be a hassle to use.

So, why are young people flocking toward these so-called “single-use technologies”? Glorfield nails it: it’s about unplugging from the digital hustle. When you take a leisurely walk with just a camera, the temptation to scroll through your work emails evaporates.

Ultimately, as they navigate a world filled with limitless convenience, can we really blame this generation for wanting a meaningful experience over soulless convenience? It turns out the true value in life might just be clunky, charming, and exist beyond the touch of a screen.