In an era where advancement in technology has moved hand in hand with the advancement of internet services, one could easily forget that there are still people who do not want or need a smartphone. Over the last decade, people have started to use dumb phones (or feature phones). While these devices were dismissed completely, they are now gradually returning to certain demographics who are seeking simplicity and focus.
So what exactly is so different about dumb phones compared to high-end smartphones that are everywhere around us today?
What Are Dumb Phones?
Dumb phones, also referred to as feature phones, are mobile phones that are much less complicated than smartphones and only allow users to send text and make calls. Usually, they have no internet capabilities, social media applications, or any sophisticated touch screens.
Rather, they have physical buttons, small screens and a basic operating system that allows them to perform a few necessary functions only.
Lauren Davies of bOnline comments: “We are more plugged into the internet, social media and messaging apps than at any time in our history. There are of course benefits that come with increased connectivity but there are also some considerations when it comes to always being switched on to the world, friends and family and our screens. Dumb phones can be a healthy alternative for a lot of people.”
Why Are Smart Phones Becoming a Trend?
In recent years, people have become more attached to the internet and their smartphones, using them constantly. However, many are now trying to cut down on their screen time and avoid distractions to focus on living in the moment.
Social media and constant notifications are a big reason why some people prefer dumb phones since they help reduce those distractions. Dumb phones are also popular with parents who want to give their kids a phone that doesn’t have internet access, keeping them away from potentially harmful online activities.
Key Differences Between Dumb Phones and Smartphones
The main difference between dumbphones and smartphones is that dumbphones focus on basic functions like calling and texting without internet access or apps, while smartphones offer a wide range of features, including internet connectivity, apps, and multimedia capabilities. Below we outline these in more detail:
Operation
The first and most notable difference between dumbphones and smartphones is the feature set. Smartphones can be compared to a fully developed mini-computer: access to the Internet, multiple apps, videos and even quality pictures. On the contrary, dumbphones have a more basic orientation. They allow for making calls and sending messages, but there is no GPS, shop apps or online games.
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Style
The usual modern-day smartphones have a soft touch hi-tech screen as part of their cutting-edge designs while the outdated designs of dumb phones generally have a normal keypad and a small plastic screen that is non-touch-sensitive.
As for the dumb phone design, it is very basic; it comes with a number of big push buttons, making it easier to dial a number and navigate the devices’ menus. These make the devices suitable for those people who don’t like using touchscreen devices or when a stylistic touch is preferred.
Battery Life
The improved battery performance is one aspect in which dumbphones outcompete smartphones. It is a known fact that dumb phones do not have power-hungry applications or high-resolution displays, and with this in mind, most of them would last days or even weeks on a single charge.
In comparison, a smartphone would have to be charged every day due to the big screen, internet connection, and a number of applications running in the background.
Internet and App Access
In recent years, smartphones have evolved tremendously giving users the ability to connect to wifi, use mobile data and download a variety of entertainment, social or productivity apps. However, dumb phones are limited in their internet access or do not have it at all.
Although some existing feature phones may provide limited internet access or use of very simplified social media apps (like WhatsApp), they are still not made for extensive use of apps or browsing.
Price
Smartphones are often quite expensive, as they are riddled with applications that allow users to work from their devices, stream films, and much more. On the other hand, dumbphones are much more cost-effective due to their simplicity.