In many Australian households, a piece of technology that was once considered outdated is experiencing a resurgence. This revival is being driven by a growing number of young Australians who are choosing to disconnect from the digital world and embrace more traditional forms of communication.
This trend has been described as a “love affair” with the landline phone, with Gen Z leading the way in redefining how people interact with technology. According to Jackie Coates, CEO of the Telstra Foundation, younger Australians are increasingly seeking ways to reclaim their time and set healthier boundaries with their devices.
“It’s definitely not a rejection or return to the pre-digital era,” she explained. “It’s about finding balance.”
For some, this shift is inspired by personal experiences. Marina, a marketing manager, shared how her partner’s approach to technology influenced her decision to reduce her reliance on digital platforms. Her partner does not use social media, which motivated her to reconnect through more traditional means, such as phone calls.
“When I’m not at work, I delete my social media apps and focus on cooking, baking, exercising, and spending quality time with loved ones,” she said.
Coates noted that it is becoming more common for young people to seek out “healthier limits” when it comes to technology. This includes engaging in “analogue experiences” like using a landline phone, journaling, or even knitting.
Marina expressed a desire to get a landline, especially since moving out of her family home a year ago. She finds comfort in calling her parents instead of relying on text messages or social media.
“For me, there’s a big difference between connecting over a landline call and just texting,” she said. “There’s a pressure to always be connected, but letting go of that has given me a new sense of freedom.”
The Shift Toward Analogue Living
The growing preference for analogue experiences is part of a broader movement among young Australians to resist the constant connectivity of the digital world. This resistance stems from the negative impacts of being online, including sleep disturbances and health issues.
A recent Australian Youth Digital Index survey of over 5,000 people aged eight to 25 found that 36 per cent reported that the internet and devices affected their sleep. An additional 18 per cent said their health was negatively impacted.
Coates believes that younger generations are setting the tone for how society interacts with technology. “They are the biggest users of technology, and they are taking back control from constant notifications,” she said.
Landlines have become a popular choice for Telstra users, particularly as the company celebrates the 150th anniversary of the telephone. Coates highlighted the human experience that landlines offer, noting that phone conversations allow for deeper connections than texting or social media.
“It’s lasted the test of time—150 years is remarkable that it’s a technology we love and use,” she said. “Young people enjoy picking up old phones, and it plays into not wanting to be always on.”
Embracing the Analogue Lifestyle
The appeal of analogue experiences extends beyond just landlines. Many young Australians are turning to activities that offer a break from digital distractions, such as reading physical books, writing by hand, or engaging in hobbies that require hands-on involvement.
Coates added that the concept of “analogue life” is gaining traction, with many people appreciating the simplicity and authenticity of non-digital interactions. “There is a lot of appeal with analogue,” she said.
As the trend continues, it remains to be seen how long the landline will stay relevant in an increasingly digital world. However, for many Australians, the simple act of picking up a landline phone represents more than just a technological choice—it’s a statement of values, a step toward balance, and a return to meaningful connections.
