Psicologo | Counselor

Someone might wonder: is it possible to live without a smartphone? Is it really feasible to use a phone that can only make calls and send messages? The answer is yes, and this change can bring significant improvements to one’s lifestyle.

Choosing a phone that is not a smartphone offers several advantages. The longer battery life, thanks to limited functionalities, allows for much longer use of the device. Moreover, it reduces distractions, fostering more immersive relationships. These phones tend to be more durable and encourage users to look around, avoid distractions, and clarify what true reality is.

However, there are some critical issues to consider; the most relevant is certainly the use of WhatsApp. Let’s address this matter calmly.

What It Means to Have a “Dumb” Phone

A “dumb” phone is capable of making only calls and sending SMS. There are some models that also offer hotspot functionality, allowing them to be used as Wi-Fi transmitters.

Personally, I use a model that offers this functionality. Although it isn’t particularly inexpensive, I’ve had it for many years, and it continues to work as if it were new.

Advantages of This Type of Phone

The main advantage of a “dumb” phone is digital disconnection. It is an “analog” device that eliminates distractions from notifications and social media. There’s no push to take photos or record videos, allowing us to maintain focus on our surroundings and the present moment. Another advantage is the longevity of this type of phone: it can last many years without ever becoming obsolete.

Disadvantages of This Type of Phone

Those who appreciate the benefits of this choice will not feel the burden of what they have left behind. However, for those who might miss a smartphone, the disadvantages include the absence of immediate notifications and the lack of photo or video functions.

The Tablet

Owning a tablet can alleviate many of these illusory disadvantages, serving as a “safety net” that you can choose to carry with you. With a tablet, you can install all social apps and use the applications available on a phone. If needed, the tablet is also capable of taking photos. It’s advisable to choose a smaller model for easier portability.

Additionally, the tablet allows access to WhatsApp Web, enabling you to check your messages whenever you want. If you wish to use WhatsApp while away from home, you can purchase a tablet with SIM support or use your “dumb” phone as a hotspot.

WhatsApp: How to continue using it with a “Dumb” Phone

To continue using WhatsApp with a “dumb” phone, you need to have a spare smartphone available, such as your old device, which you can keep at home, even turned off and stored in a drawer, without a SIM card. However, first, you will need to install WhatsApp on this smartphone. After installing the app, enter the number of the SIM card in your “dumb” phone and request a verification code via SMS. Once you receive it, input the code into the WhatsApp app on your old smartphone.

Next, you will need to link the app to WhatsApp Web on your tablet or computer by using the QR code. From that moment on, you will have access to WhatsApp on your tablet whenever you visit the website https://web.whatsapp.com/. Once this process is completed, you can turn off your spare smartphone and keep it in the drawer.

You will forfeit immediate WhatsApp notifications, but if something is urgent, nearly everyone will call.

As I mentioned earlier, I highly recommend this lifestyle. Personally, after years of experience, I no longer perceive any disadvantages, only advantages. I believe many of us need to give ourselves breaks from the “social” life that has permeated our existence.

If you don’t feel ready for such a radical change, I suggest disabling all notifications, including those from WhatsApp, on your smartphone and accessing the app only occasionally to check messages. Additionally, it may be helpful to disconnect your data network and limit your smartphone usage to calls. This way, you can enjoy a greater balance in your daily life while reducing digital distractions.