I’ll always remember the first time I got fooled by an AI video. Remember? It was that one of the bunnies jumping on a trampoline that looked like it came from someone’s outdoor home security camera. I’d spent months laughing as my grandparents and even parents were falling for AI content on Instagram and Facebook, but when it happened to me, it was anything but funny. 2025 was the year that AI got good (like, really good), but 2026 seems to be taking a turn.
Every cultural phenomenon lies along a pendulum and swings back and forth, and this technological revolution is no different. According to my TikTok for you page and YouTube recommended videos, the backswing means that 2026 is the year we’ll return to analog. But what does that mean?
What is analog?
Dictionary.com defines “analog” as “not involving or relating to the use of computer technology, as a contrast to a digital counterpart.” In other words, if I were doing analog right, you’d be reading this article in the form of a handwritten letter, and I would’ve found that definition from an actual physical dictionary.
It makes sense that our response to the terrifying power of technology would be to revert to tried-and-true methods to give us a sense of safety and control. It can even be nostalgic, like with the rise of digital camera photographic treatments and spontaneous candids in favor of overly polished iPhone photos. Whatever the reason to go analog, it means that we’re ditching our digital ecosystems and rebuilding with non-computer-based tools.
How can I go analog?
Going analog can seem daunting, and it can be difficult to know where to start. We’ve all been conditioned to rely heavily on our technology to communicate, navigate, and document our way through our lives. Here are a few tips on how to kickstart your analog revolution!
Take baby steps.
It’s nearly impossible to quit technology cold turkey, so your best bet is to take baby steps. Start with some small swaps, then build up over time as you get accustomed to the analog lifestyle.
Start a journal ecosystem.
Technology helps us keep our lives organized, but journals can too. You may need a planner, a scrapbook, and/or a miscellaneous journal to replace your calendar, social media, and notes apps. Bonus tip: invest in a Louise Carmen dupe on Etsy for a leather binding that allows you to keep all three journals in one place. Carry it in your purse for easy access wherever you go!
Invest in a cute watch.
Am I the only one who has lost the ability to read a clock? If it’s not just me, consider purchasing a cute watch to rebuild that essential skill. Not only can it be a fun fashion statement, but it also reduces your need to constantly check your phone for the time.
Take Polaroid photos.
Digital cameras have had a recent comeback, and I’d argue that we can take it one step further and return to our true tween roots. Polaroid photos are super cute, very spontaneous, and undoubtedly analog. You can get an Instax Mini for cheap or browse thrift stores for vintage cameras.
Listen to tunes retro-style.
Most of us own or are familiar with record players and vinyl, but that’s not the only analog way to listen to music. Try CDs or cassette tapes in a portable CD or cassette player. Don’t forget some wired headphones to really complete the look!
Consume physical media.
Swap TV shows, movies, and videos for books, magazines, and newspapers. I’ve found myself so overwhelmed by online media that returning to analog entertainment almost feels like a form of self-care. It helps me quiet the noise and rebuild my focus.
The world of technology can feel like it’s moving at lightning speed, but we still have control over the tools we choose to use. If 2026 is the year you go analog, I wish you nothing but peace and happiness!