About SKDP

We're students who got tired of being controlled by our phones. So we did something about it.

Our Mission

Smart Kids, Dumb Phones exists for one reason: to show students that ditching your smartphone isn't weird — it's a power move.

"The most rebellious thing a teenager can do today is put down their phone."

We're not anti-technology. We're pro-choosing your technology. A dumbphone lets you call, text, and live your life — without an algorithm deciding how you feel today.

The Smartphone Problem

7+ hrs
Average daily screen time for teens
50%
Of teens say they feel addicted to their phone
2x
Rise in teen anxiety since smartphones became common
85%
Of teens use social media — most say it's hard to stop

These aren't just numbers. This is what it feels like to grow up with a supercomputer designed to steal your attention in your pocket 24/7. It doesn't have to be this way.

What Is a Dumbphone?

A dumbphone (or feature phone) is any phone that does the basics — calls and texts — without the addictive apps, infinite feeds, and constant notifications of a smartphone.

Modern dumbphones come in all shapes:

  • Classic flip phones — Nokia 2780, Alcatel Go Flip 4
  • Minimalist phones — Light Phone II with its beautiful E-Ink screen
  • Rugged phones — CAT B40, built tough for active lifestyles
  • Retro candy bars — Nokia 8210 4G, pocket-sized and iconic

Many have 4G, GPS, hotspot capability, Bluetooth, and even basic music players. You keep the essentials — you just lose the addiction.

Frequently Asked Questions

You'll miss out on doomscrolling, comparison anxiety, and sleep deprivation. What you gain is more time, better focus, and real conversations. Most "essential" smartphone tasks (maps, music, email) can be handled with a laptop or tablet at home.
Some dumbphones support WhatsApp or basic messaging apps. For group chats, SMS/MMS still works. As for social media — that's kind of the point. You can still check it on a computer when you choose to, rather than having it ping you 200 times a day.
Many modern dumbphones have built-in GPS. The Light Phone II and Punkt MC02 both have turn-by-turn directions. You can also use a dedicated GPS device, print directions, or (revolutionary concept) ask someone for directions.
Most parents are thrilled when their kid wants a dumbphone. Lead with the benefits: better grades, better sleep, less drama. If they're worried about safety, point out that dumbphones still make calls, send texts, and many have GPS tracking. Check out our blog post on making the switch for more tips.
Most dumbphones cost between $20-$100. Even the premium options (Light Phone II at ~$299) are cheaper than any flagship smartphone. Plus, your phone plan drops to $15-25/month without a data plan. You'll save money long-term.
Use a laptop or tablet for school apps — those are tools, not distractions, when they stay at your desk. A dumbphone handles communication. A computer handles work. Separating the two is the whole point.