Trade · Berlins TodayFrom blasting music on a boom box to watching a photo develop in your hands, many people are rediscovering the imperfect charm of older gadgets that smartphones and laptops just can’t replicate. Tech companies are leaning all the way in, blending nostalgic design with modern functionality. Here are some of the coolest retro-inspired devices out there right now.
Digital typewriters are carving out a niche for a more focused writing experience. These devices strip things back to the essentials: just you, a keyboard, and your words. Freewrite ($699) features a design inspired by classic typewriters, providing a minimalist writing experience with a small screen and satisfying keys. However, if you need to make edits, your drafts are synced to the cloud and can be exported to any software. Pomera ($549) offers a more modern take, resembling a compact laptop with tools like spell check, document management, and word counts. It supports multiple transfer options and has up to 20 hours of battery life.
Boom boxes, cassette tapes, and record players are re-emerging as both design statements and functional audio devices. Today’s versions pair chunky buttons, cassette decks, and oversized speakers with modern upgrades like Bluetooth and rechargeable batteries. We Are Rewind ($525) is a modern reimagining of the classic boom box, featuring Bluetooth, a cassette player, and a rechargeable battery with 104 W of power. Bumpboxx’s BB-777, now live on Kickstarter, combines an ’80s aesthetic with features like dual cassette decks, a built-in CD player, USB recording, and multiband radio. Retrospekt ($99) is a minimalist cassette player supporting battery power and USB-C. Kickback World’s DEKO record player, with its orange acrylic design, has gained popularity for its aesthetic appeal.
Instant cameras offer a uniquely satisfying experience. Polaroid’s Flip ($249) combines retro design with modern features like autofocus and app connectivity. Fujifilm’s Instax Mini Evo ($225) and Instax Mini Evo Cinema ($412) provide a hybrid approach, allowing instant film with digital storage and sharing. Kodak’s Charmera ($30) is a miniature keychain digital camera that saves and transfers photos and videos via USB-C.
Phones are also making a comeback, particularly among those seeking a break from screen-heavy communication. Tin Can ($100) is a Wi-Fi-based landline phone designed for kids, allowing calls only between approved contacts. Clicks Technology’s smartphone ($499) resembles a BlackBerry, offering text messaging and productivity apps but excluding mobile games and social media. Pinwheel Home ($68) and Ooma MyPhone ($100) are other kid-friendly home phone options, designed as modern alternatives to traditional landlines with features like parental call monitoring and restricted contact lists.
This article explores how retro tech is gaining traction, combining nostalgia with modern functionality across various devices.
Source: TechCrunch
