Gen Z Embraces Retro Tech to Unplug from Screens
Have you noticed how Gen Z is all about reviving retro tech? Yeah, it’s true! Just ask 23-year-old London Glorfield, who started a brand called Kickback to help folks like him reclaim some quality time away from those pesky screens. He grew up with smartphones and social media taking over his life, and he’s not alone—many of his friends felt the same way.
The Tech Overload
Glorfield reminisces about those times when he spent countless hours glued to his phone, connecting with fans and friends. Unfortunately, that just led to some serious unhappiness. So, when he saw his buddies doing the same thing, they decided it was time to cut back on the digital noise. This struggle inspired him to launch a brand dedicated to retro tech, offering CD and record players, cameras, speakers, and more. Talk about a throwback!
Kickback has already raked in over $500,000 since its launch last year, proving that there’s a real craving for unplugged experiences. Glorfield explains that their products help people reconnect with the tactile feelings they were missing in the digital age: “We’ve found specific success with products that are really great for actually unplugging.”
Why Retro Tech is Making a Comeback
A recent report by the Global Wellness Summit identified the resurgence of retro and analog tech as a major trend for 2025. Instead of a nostalgia trip, it seems to come from a genuine need to break free from constant screen time. According to Beth McGroarty, research director at the Global Wellness Institute, it’s not just about looking back; it’s about addressing a need for real, touchable experiences. She points out that people are naturally hardwired for tactile experiences, and when everything becomes digital, it can feel a bit void of substance.
With Gen Z spending practically their whole lives in front of screens, they’re craving a break from the same-old routine filled with passive information. Just imagine walking outside with a camera in hand instead of your smartphone; it’s about rediscovering joy in the little things, without the temptation of scrolling through social media.
The Rise of Retro Retailers
This wave of retro enthusiasts isn’t limited to just one brand. Adam Fuerst, co-founder of Retrospekt, has been selling classic tech like Polaroid cameras and Game Boys for years. He agrees that while modern tech makes life convenient, it can also feel sterile and impersonal. For him and his team, it’s all about creating experiences that matter—because in a world dominated by convenience, those meaningful moments really shine through.
Retrospekt has seen annual sales hitting around $8 million, attracting a customer base aged 13 to 39. Fuerst sums it up well: “There’s just something so meaningful and special about having that physical object.” It seems like the more we move into a digital-first world, the more we crave those tangible connections.
So, next time you find yourself combing through endless apps or notifications, remember that there’s a whole world of retro tech out there waiting to help you unplug. It just might be the escape you didn’t know you needed!
