It’s not just a phase: The real reason Gen-z love Y2K gadgets.
What is it about the early 2000s that’s has such a chokehold onto Gen-Z?
we know the early 2000’s holds a huge place in many of our hearts but it’s getting out of hand. From the recent discovery of Capris back in action (which wasn’t on my 2025 bingo cards) to EVERYBODY’s newfound craze to collect outdated digital cameras and iPods. Many would question why as our modern-day phones possess the ability to present us with camera quality a Coolpix Nikon could never or perhaps an iPod with CERY limited abilities to even navigate let alone carry millions of songs onto before “low disk space” appears.
No This era of Digital isn’t about simplicity and precision but embracing the wonders of old time maximalism where we once had choices radiating colours on cameras which capture the most nostalgic moments in times with grainy sun-kissed aesthetics holding memories of you and your friends before a glamorous night out or even rediscovering your old pocket sized iPod holding only the best of 2000s “real” hits and peak of hot girl pop culture in music.
There are several reasons to why Y2K technology has and always will be a pinnacle of nostalgia compared to today’s technology. Let’s unravel why.
The most important aspect to gen Z is the appearance of the product.
The visual impact of early 2000’s products are always vibrant, fun and playful, it allows users to have the ability to make these products apart of their identity, visual aesthetic. None of this sleek, sharp edged, brittle stuff we are addicted to now. Similarly to our Boomer parents/grandparents yapping about how
the sound of vinyl compared to Spotify gives a warming atmosphere in the room that our phones could never be able to mimic. It’s the same effect to GenZ. And let’s be honest, a grainy digital effect to and time camera sounds so much better than a mobile capturing every single detail of your skin.
(Image taken by Emily Jemal)
Nostalgia. The urge to regenerate a time when life was simpler, no social media to enforce pressure and haunt us on a cute image turns into slander but instead a digital camera which hold nothing but beautifully shot moments in time with loved ones, it evokes relaxation, serotonin and comfort. Especially as Gen-Z are growing to realise how overrated modern technology is and how much it negatively impacts mental health.
Desire to be able to have physical objects with their own abilities, products such as flip phones and polaroid cameras have their own specific “niche” you could say making each and every product unique with physical appearance and ability. Something that smartphones simplify but take away the niche and personal aspect of.
The Fascination and demand that Genz hold onto when it comes to early 2000’s digital products are not only motivating but vital to keep others reminded of simplicity of life before the surge of growth in technology. That once upon a time, A digital camera, hot pink flip phone and mini iPod is all a girl needed and that can still be the case in 2025.
By Emily Ayse Jemal.
