Intentional tech: How the rise of minimalism is reshaping our digital habits
Though it's still early days, the groundswell of consumers and companies chasing minimalist tech suggests an emerging trend.
Tech minimalism is having a real moment. From physical products like the Light Phone, Remarkable, and Ugmonk to apps/services like Minimalist Phone, Niagara Launcher, and the Arc web browser, companies are introducing new products and services tailored for people who want to bring minimalism to their tech relationships every day.
As someone long embedded in the tech world, I've found the idea of scaling back and being more intentional about the technology I use refreshing—especially in this era of information overload and generative AI, which makes some people skeptical about what and how much they consume through technology.
This notion of tech (or digital) minimalism is not new; people have been writing about it for years, whether in a blog or book). It just seems to be picking up steam as more consumers speak with their wallets and companies react with new products.
The idea of tech minimalism is not about rejecting technology entirely but making thoughtful choices to simplify and enrich our lives. Yes, I still use my modern smartphone and enjoy playing with the latest in emerging technology, but I've made some changes to my approach to tech usage.
For example, one of the most impactful changes I've made is adopting the Remarkable 2 for journaling and note-taking. Its e-ink display and long battery life allow me to concentrate on my thoughts without the interruption of constant notifications. The Remarkable 2 has become an essential tool for maintaining a clutter-free digital workspace, enhancing my productivity and focus.
In addition to the Remarkable 2, I've jumped from smartwatches to analogue watches and an Oura smart ring. The Oura ring is a sleek, discreet device that tracks my sleep, activity, and readiness without the bulk of a traditional smartwatch or the constant buzz of notifications on my wrist. This shift has helped me maintain a more mindful approach to health tracking.
While I have been intrigued with the idea of switching to the Light Phone for a more minimalist phone experience, especially with Light Phone III pre-orders now up, I've found a middle ground with my existing Google Pixel 8 Pro by using the Niagara Launcher. This launcher simplifies my home screen, focusing on essential apps and reducing clutter. Its intuitive design and streamlined interface offer the best of both worlds—modern smartphone functionality with a minimalist aesthetic.
Another device that's piqued my interest is the BOOX Palma, which I've been eyeing since March. This handheld e-ink device has been gaining popularity in tech media circles in recent weeks, thanks to a combination of David Pierce's piece in The Verge and FOMO on Tech Threads. It combines an e-reader's readability with some smartphone functionalities as it runs an old version of Android, making it an excellent tool for those looking to reduce screen time and eye strain. People are installing e-book reader apps and services to read long-form articles, which seems incredibly useful and adds to the growing array of products that support a more intentional approach to our digital lives.
Embracing a more minimalist-leaning technology lifestyle has been a rewarding journey, and I want to continue it to see where it leads. It's allowed me to enjoy the essential benefits of technology while reducing unnecessary distractions. The goal isn't to abandon technology but to use it more thoughtfully.
From a macro lens of the tech industry, this is a space that you will see more companies lean into as the market continues to grow. We're living in a chaotic world full of information overload. Now more than ever, more people want to use technology to help reduce noise and are willing to pay for it. Maybe the whole "less is more" saying had a point.
A client gifted me a Ugmonk Analog set and I've been hooked ever since. It's the only task tracking system that has ever worked for me. Interested in the Aura, will look into that - thanks!