"Tech companies and AI slop have taken over the internet. As social media becomes increasingly homogenised, invasive, and polarising, there is now status in actively choosing to avoid the digital world entirely and rejecting the pursuit of a personal brand. Zuckerbergs of the world, beware: offline living is on the rise with Gen Z. Young people are increasingly turning off their phones, keeping their screens dark, and seeking out internet-free spaces to escape the overwhelming presence of social media and algorithmic feeds."
"Eugene Healey, a writer for Considered Chaos, describes this shift as 'connected privacy,' a new form of status symbol that rejects the constant pursuit of engagement and instead prioritises intentional restraint and self-control. What does this mean, in real terms? Melissa Fleur Afshar, a journalist for Newsweek, says that Gen Z and young millennials are feeling a 'growing disillusionment with social media' and are taking steps to reduce their screen time."
"Research shows that holidaymakers are yearning for time away from the algorithm, with demand for detox retreats seeing a 47% yearly rise among those aged 18-26. The 2025 Hilton Trends Report also claims that 27% of all travelling adults plan to reduce social media use when on holiday this year. It's become such a big deal that even the BBC has taken note."
Young people are retreating from pervasive social media and algorithmic feeds by turning off phones, deleting accounts, and choosing older or simpler devices. The shift is framed as 'connected privacy,' where restraint and self-control become cultural status markers. Digital minimalism and deliberate screen-free days are rising, and apps that limit phone use have found an audience among Gen Z. Travel and hospitality data show growing demand for internet-free experiences: detox retreats rose 47% yearly for 18–26-year-olds and 27% of travellers plan reduced social use on holidays. In-person events and offline activities are being prioritized over constant online engagement.
Read at Thred Website
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