Analog Lifestyle Backlash: Consumers Seek Escape from AI-Saturated World

A growing consumer backlash against AI-powered devices and services is driving what experts call the "analog lifestyle" movement in 2026. Unlike temporary digital detoxes, this trend represents a sustained effort to find tangible ways to complete daily tasks and seek entertainment as generative AI platforms increasingly handle thinking and doing for people.

"AI slop is quite fatiguing both in the actual action of viewing the content and the fact that it's so repetitive, so unoriginal." — Avriel Epps, AI researcher, UC Riverside

Retail Sees Surge in Analog Interest

Arts and crafts retailer Michaels reports that searches for "analog hobbies" on its website increased by 136 percent over the past six months. The company, which operates over 1,300 stores in North America, has seen particular growth in hands-on activities like journaling, scrapbooking, and traditional crafts.

Embracing Technologies of Previous Eras

The trend extends beyond crafting to embrace technologies of previous eras, with consumers replacing Spotify playlists with iPods and film cameras taking precedence over smartphone photography. The movement doesn't mean abandoning all technology. Rather, participants are selectively choosing which digital conveniences to retain while reclaiming control over their attention and personal data.

The Walking Oxymoron

Small acts like purchasing a physical alarm clock can feel liberating, as consumers seek to reduce the constant data collection enabled by smart devices. Some participants have gone further, adopting landlines at home and "dumb phone" apps when out. Vintage enthusiasts are hosting tech-free craft nights, writing handwritten notes, and setting strict limits on computer time. "Snail mail clubs" have emerged as an alternative to digital communication.

However, even committed analog lifestyle advocates acknowledge the difficulty of going completely offline in 2026. Online platforms remain essential for outreach and business activities, creating what some describe as a "walking oxymoron" situation where people use social media to promote offline living. The trend reflects broader consumer fatigue with constant connectivity and AI-generated content.