Switching to a dumbphone? How to survive in a smartphone world

Tiffany from Cambridge is considering a dumbphone to escape smartphone drawbacks, but worries about losing access to banking, transport, shopping, and social connections. Her friends prefer texts over calls, and she fears missing crucial information. The Guardian’s reader question seeks practical advice on transitioning to a lower-tech lifestyle without major disruptions. This reflects growing concerns over smartphone dependence and digital wellbeing. While no solutions are provided yet, the discussion invites real-world strategies for balancing simplicity with modern necessities. The takeaway: moving away from smartphones requires planning, but it’s possible with the right workarounds.