Camilla Jessen
“Dumb” phones are booming in sales — and it’s not just older users driving the trend.
Once seen as relics of the past, basic mobile phones — or “dumb phones” — are enjoying a surprising comeback.
As the Norwegian telecom company Ice prepares to shut down its 2G network on May 27, thousands of users are being forced to upgrade.
But rather than embracing latest smartphone models, many are turning back the clock.
And it’s not just out of necessity, but rather a conscious lifestyle choice.
Retailers are seeing the trend firsthand.
Norwegian electronics chains like Power and Elkjøp report a huge spike in sales of basic mobile phones, with top-selling models including the Doro range and the nostalgic relaunch of the Nokia 3210.
According to Power, sales of dumb phones have quadrupled in just one week.
“Nationwide, we saw a 25% increase in the second half of last year — and now the growth has exploded,” said Silje Ensrud, speaking to DinSide.
More Than a Tech Shift
While the 2G shutdown is pushing some users to replace older devices, especially among the elderly, a surprising number of young people are also driving the trend.
“Many young people use them as a break from screen life,” said Kristian Wallanger from Elkjøp.
In a world overflowing with constant notifications, infinite scrolling, and social media overload, more people are seeing the appeal of simplicity.
The new dumb phone movement has become part of a larger digital detox trend, a way to reclaim focus, peace of mind, and presence.
This isn’t just a wave of retro-tech romanticism. It’s a statement. People are re-evaluating their relationship with technology, and many are choosing to strip it back to the basics: calls, texts, and maybe a flashlight.