More people, led by Gen Z and baby boomers, are leaving social media for digital wellbeing, Axios reported on May 7 (local time).

Citing research results released last month, Axios reported that the number of social media platforms used by U.S. adults is declining. It found that 12 percent of those aged 65 and older and 7 percent of those aged 18 to 29 do not use social media at all. The study, published in an academic journal on digital media, found that from 2020 to 2024 most users posted less, while polarisation and angry posts increased on platforms.

Demand is also rising for “dumbphones” that offer only basic functions instead of smartphones. Dumbphone company Dumb.co’s “Dumbphone 2” model synchronises smartphone contacts, calls and text messages, while offering only essential apps such as Uber, maps, two-factor authentication, a camera and an alarm. Dumb.co is also planning to expand into overseas markets within the year.

Jonathan Haidt (조너선 하이트), a social psychologist at New York University (NYU), said, "A movement is emerging within Gen Z to return to real-world relationships. After experiencing firsthand the side effects of isolation, they are learning again how to find happiness in real life."