Tech Tip: Smartphone Alternatives

An article published in “Frontiers in Psychiatry” in August 2025 states, “Smartphones have become an integral part of life for an increasing number of people around the world.”

There is no doubt that smartphones, and technology in general, help us on a daily basis with several aspects of our lives, including communicating (texting, calling, Face Timing) and keeping us on track (calendars, notes, reminders).

I wonder, is there a way to keep the benefits of this technology while eliminating the addictive nature of the device, for all age groups?

Yes.

There are things we can do to eliminate distractions and help with keeping us grounded, including taking the “smart” out of the phone.

Sometimes referred to as “dumbphones,” smartphone alternatives are on the rise. A simple Google search leads to many resources. Wait Until 8th, a national initiative encouraging parents to delay giving children smartphones until the end of eighth grade, published a list of smartphone alternatives, including Tin Can, Gizmo Watch, and Connekt Flip Phone.

For all of us, especially children, do we really need to have a smartphone? Definitely something to think about, and definitely something I encourage all of us to explore.