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What I do for maps, music, photos and podcasts using a dumbphone
Living with a Dumb Phone: Challenges and Solutions
Ark
May 16, 2025
In an age where smartphones dominate our daily lives, the idea of switching to a dumb phone might seem daunting—or even impossible. If you’re tired of spending countless hours glued to your smartphone screen and are curious about whether you could survive with a dumb phone, this article is for you. While there are undeniable benefits to using a dumb phone, such as reclaiming time and mental clarity, there are also challenges that require creative solutions. Below, I share my experience of switching to a dumb phone, focusing on the four main conveniences I missed from my smartphone—maps, music, a camera, and a digital wallet—and how I’ve adapted to life without them.
The Appeal of a Dumb Phone
For me, the benefits of using a dumb phone far outweigh the inconveniences. The reduced screen time, increased presence in the moment, and sense of independence from constant notifications have been liberating. However, the transition wasn’t seamless. When I switched to a dumb phone (specifically, the Aspara R40), I knew I’d miss four key smartphone features: maps, music, the camera, and the digital wallet. There’s no perfect replacement for these conveniences, but with some compromises and creative workarounds, I’ve found a system that works for me. Let’s dive into each challenge and the solutions I’ve adopted.
One of the biggest conveniences of a smartphone is its GPS and mapping apps. The Aspara R40 does have a basic maps function, but it’s far from user-friendly. You have to manually click through each step, and I’ve struggled to pinpoint my location on the map. While it’s theoretically possible to see your position, I haven’t mastered it.
My Solutions:
Pre-Planning Directions: Before heading to a new place, I look up directions on my laptop and jot them down in a notebook. This has become an enjoyable ritual that makes me feel prepared and engaged. Writing down directions forces me to pay closer attention to street signs and landmarks, which has made me more observant while driving. I’ve also been surprised by how well-labeled streets are in my area, making navigation easier than expected.
Using the Phone’s Basic Maps: For simple routes, especially when walking, the phone’s maps function is adequate. However, it’s impractical for driving, as I’d need to pull over to click through steps and memorize them.
Embracing the Adventure of Getting Lost: I’ve gotten lost a few times, but I don’t mind. Reorienting myself using common sense and surroundings feels satisfying and even exciting. It’s a refreshing change from blindly following GPS instructions.
Asking for Help: When I’m truly lost, I’ve called friends or family for directions. The dumb phone connects to my car’s Bluetooth, so I can safely talk while driving. These conversations can be tricky but often turn into fun, collaborative efforts to get me back on track.
Using an iPad as a Backup: If I have my iPad with me, I can connect it to the dumb phone’s hotspot and use maps on the iPad. This is a last resort, as I prefer to avoid relying on additional devices.
While this system isn’t foolproof, it’s made me more resourceful and confident in my ability to navigate without constant digital assistance.
Challenge 2: Listening to Music and Audio
Music was another concern when I switched to a dumb phone, especially since many of my friends couldn’t imagine life without instant access to playlists. I’ve never been someone who constantly listens to music, so this transition was easier for me than it might be for others.
My Solutions:
Rediscovering the Radio: I now listen to the radio while driving, which has introduced me to new stations, news, and political discussions I wouldn’t have explored otherwise. It’s been a surprisingly enjoyable shift.
Portable Pocket Radio: For walks with my dog, I use a small pocket radio. It’s a quirky, old-school solution that adds charm to my routine.
Using the iPad for Audio: My iPad connects to my car’s Bluetooth, allowing me to play downloaded playlists, podcasts, or audiobooks. I often download content before leaving home, but I can also stream using the dumb phone’s hotspot if needed.
Some might argue that carrying an iPad is no different from having a smartphone, but for me, the iPad’s size and cumbersome nature discourage mindless scrolling. It’s a deliberate tool for specific tasks, not a device I’m tempted to use impulsively.
Challenge 3: Living Without a Constant Camera
Not having a camera at my fingertips was initially exciting, as I was tired of mindlessly scrolling through photos on my smartphone. However, the lack of a camera can feel limiting, especially during special moments with friends or family.
My Solutions:
Relying on Others: When I’m with friends or family, they’re usually taking photos with their smartphones. I no longer worry about capturing every moment myself, knowing I can ask them to share photos later. This has shifted my focus to being present rather than documenting everything.
Using the iPad as a Camera: In moments when I want to take photos, I sometimes use my iPad. While it feels a bit awkward, it gets the job done.
This adjustment has been easier during my daily routine but more noticeable during exciting outings. Ultimately, I’ve learned to appreciate experiences without the pressure to photograph them.
Challenge 4: Managing Without a Digital Wallet
Having my wallet, ID, and payment methods on my smartphone was incredibly convenient. Switching to a dumb phone meant relying on a physical wallet, which presented unexpected challenges.
My Solutions:
Carrying a Physical Wallet: I now carry a card wallet, but I initially struggled to ensure my transaction account had enough funds. Unlike my savings account, which isn’t accessible via card, my transaction account needed regular topping up.
Automating Transfers: After a few instances of running low on funds, I set up automatic transfers to keep my transaction account sufficiently funded. This simple fix has made the transition smoother.
Considering a Credit Card: For those with a credit card, this issue would be less problematic, as it eliminates the need to monitor account balances closely.
This challenge was more significant than I anticipated, but with better planning, it’s become manageable.
Bonus: Email and Other Smartphone Features
One question I often get is how I manage email without a smartphone. Since I rarely used email on my phone, this wasn’t a big adjustment. I check emails on my laptop, which has been sufficient for my needs.
The Bigger Picture: Why It’s Worth It
Switching to a dumb phone comes with inconveniences, but the benefits—more time, less distraction, and a sense of independence—have been transformative for me. The compromises I’ve made have taught me to be more resourceful, present, and intentional in my daily life. Even if you’re not ready to fully commit to a dumb phone, trying one for a week or a month can be a powerful way to prove to yourself that you can live without your smartphone. The satisfaction of reclaiming your time and attention is well worth the effort.
If you’re considering a dumb phone or have faced similar challenges, I’d love to hear your solutions or anticipated hurdles. What creative workarounds would you use to navigate life without a smartphone? Share your thoughts, and let’s continue the conversation about living more intentionally in a digital world.
#Innovation #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #DigitalMarketing #Technology #Career #Networking #Business #Motivation #FutureOfWork
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