Digital cameras and wired earphones are back - and 'a bit more real'

In a weekend filled with unexpected twists, a reporter found themselves taking a digital camera to a DJ set, experimenting with older technology that has seen a resurgence in popularity. The digital camera, left on charge at home, was charged and prepared for the task. The reporter was accompanied by a photography-loving friend who assisted with camera settings and captured the moment on film.

The sight of the reporter and friend with their vintage camera drew attention from passersby, who remarked on the rarity of such devices in recent times.

The popularity of digital cameras, wired headphones, and early MP3 players like iPods has increased on platforms like eBay and social media. According to market research, there are currently 42 million active film camera users globally, with a significant portion aged 18-30. This trend is believed to be influenced by social media trends and a yearning for a more authentic and genuine representation of moments.

Content creators and users have expressed their preference for digital cameras over phone cameras, citing the "gritty" and "more real" quality of photos taken with traditional cameras. Similarly, low-exposure photos produced by iPhones and Androids are also gaining traction on social media. The reporter's photography friend and content creator Lily Redman explained that digital cameras capture a moment in time, preserving memories more accurately than phone photos, which often appear warped due to the perception of time.

Not only digital cameras but early MP3 devices, such as iPods, are also experiencing a surge in demand. Backmarket reported a 48% increase in iPod sales between 2024 and 2025. Cheri Sanih, a 30-year-old content creator, attributes this trend to nostalgia and the desire to escape from the constant notifications on her smartphone. For Sanih, owning an iPod provides a sense of escapism and connection to simpler times, as well as a visually appealing design with a user-friendly interface.

Wired headphones have also found their place back in the spotlight, with users appreciating their simplicity and the clear microphone function. Monique Wellman-Mason, a 23-year-old social media manager, prefers wired headphones over wireless ones due to the tangles she often encounters with her earbuds. She enjoys the tactile experience and the constant connection to her phone.

The resurgence of these older technologies can be attributed to a desire for control, as explained by Andrew Przybylski, a professor of technology and human behavior at the University of Oxford. The modern digital world often leaves individuals feeling overwhelmed by the plethora of options, leading to decision paralysis. By choosing to use older technology, people can take control of their experiences and create a sense of connection.

Przybylski emphasizes that purchasing one's own music or taking one's own pictures fosters a stronger bond with the content, providing a fulfilling sense of ownership.