Open Thread: Give Me the Analog Life
When I travel, I’ve made the choice to stay in hotels, even if home rentals might save me money in the long run. Why? Because when I’m on vacation, I want to escape the hassle of technology. I don’t want to spend time downloading apps to operate the dishwasher, adjust the temperature, or figure out which remote controls the TV—tasks that often require watching tutorial videos. I go on vacation to get away from all of that.
What I crave are switches, buttons, and knobs that provide instant, tactile feedback. I want to know that my commands are received and executed, regardless of the internet connection, Wi-Fi status, or power source. Give me the analog life!
I’m not alone in this sentiment. This issue is increasingly relevant—even for younger, tech-savvy individuals—especially during the blizzards sweeping across the nation that lead to power outages. Imagine returning home in a snowstorm only to find you can’t get in because your smart home devices are down. No internet means no access to the garage door, front door, thermostat, or lights.
I don’t want a refrigerator with a screen that tells me what’s inside. I prefer to simply open the door. When it comes to laundry, I don’t need 20 different cycles with a dashboard resembling something from Apollo 11. I’m washing dirty socks, not splitting atoms; all I need are options for ‘Hot,’ ‘Cold,’ ‘Normal Wash,’ and ‘Heavy Duty.’ I shouldn’t have to watch a training video or download an app just to turn on a dishwasher.
That said, I’m not against all advanced technology in home appliances. Anything that enhances safety is welcome. (Be sure to check out our upcoming Tech Hub feature on February 18, which highlights technology that helps you age in place.)
While engineering for safety is commendable, over-engineering for the sake of it is another matter entirely. Over-engineered appliances often come with too many potential failure points, and repairs can be costly. I prefer a knob, dial, or tactile button over a touch screen. A broken knob can be easily replaced, but a malfunctioning touch screen? That’s a different story.
And don’t even get me started on upgrades, which I like to call the “IT Full Employment Program.” I’m in agreement with my man Tony B. on this one:
YOUR TURN
But that’s just my perspective. What about you? Are there household appliances with bells and whistles that you appreciate? Are there ones you could easily live without? What’s your experience with over-engineered products? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Virge Randall is Senior Planet’s Managing Editor. She is also a freelance culture reporter who seeks out hidden gems and unsung (or undersung) treasures for Straus Newspapers. She frequently writes about Old School New York City and performs at open mic readings throughout the city. Send Open Thread suggestions to editor@seniorplanet.org.
When I travel, I’ve made the choice to stay in hotels, even if home rentals might save me money in the long run. Why? Because when I’m on vacation, I want to escape the hassle of technology. I don’t want to spend time downloading apps to operate the dishwasher, adjust the temperature, or figure out which remote controls the TV—tasks that often require watching tutorial videos. I go on vacation to get away from all of that.
What I crave are switches, buttons, and knobs that provide instant, tactile feedback. I want to know that my commands are received and executed, regardless of the internet connection, Wi-Fi status, or power source. Give me the analog life!
I’m not alone in this sentiment. This issue is increasingly relevant—even for younger, tech-savvy individuals—especially during the blizzards sweeping across the nation that lead to power outages. Imagine returning home in a snowstorm only to find you can’t get in because your smart home devices are down. No internet means no access to the garage door, front door, thermostat, or lights.
I don’t want a refrigerator with a screen that tells me what’s inside. I prefer to simply open the door. When it comes to laundry, I don’t need 20 different cycles with a dashboard resembling something from Apollo 11. I’m washing dirty socks, not splitting atoms; all I need are options for ‘Hot,’ ‘Cold,’ ‘Normal Wash,’ and ‘Heavy Duty.’ I shouldn’t have to watch a training video or download an app just to turn on a dishwasher.
That said, I’m not against all advanced technology in home appliances. Anything that enhances safety is welcome. (Be sure to check out our upcoming Tech Hub feature on February 18, which highlights technology that helps you age in place.)
While engineering for safety is commendable, over-engineering for the sake of it is another matter entirely. Over-engineered appliances often come with too many potential failure points, and repairs can be costly. I prefer a knob, dial, or tactile button over a touch screen. A broken knob can be easily replaced, but a malfunctioning touch screen? That’s a different story.
And don’t even get me started on upgrades, which I like to call the “IT Full Employment Program.” I’m in agreement with my man Tony B. on this one:
YOUR TURN
But that’s just my perspective. What about you? Are there household appliances with bells and whistles that you appreciate? Are there ones you could easily live without? What’s your experience with over-engineered products? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Virge Randall is Senior Planet’s Managing Editor. She is also a freelance culture reporter who seeks out hidden gems and unsung (or undersung) treasures for Straus Newspapers. She frequently writes about Old School New York City and performs at open mic readings throughout the city. Send Open Thread suggestions to editor@seniorplanet.org.
