‘Dumb phone’ sales picking up

SALES of ‘dumb phones’ have risen as more and more of us attempt to escape smartphones and social media, figures have revealed.

The devices, also known as ‘feature phones’, allow users only to make and receive calls, and do not feature the internet or other apps. They are seen as a way to switch off from constant online connectivity.

The no-frills handsets – such as the Nokia 8110, pictured – are also popular with older shoppers who want an easy-to-use device. While global sales of smartphones increased by just 2 per cent last year, sales of ‘dumb phones’ rose by 5 per cent, the figures show. It comes after a report by Ofcom found that 78 per cent of Britons admitted they could not live without their smartphone, spending an average of two hours and 28 minutes online on it each day. Psychologist Dr Daria Kuss said some smartphone users ‘may be aware that they’re using it too much, however they can’t stop themselves’.