A surprising consensus emerged at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas this week: some tech leaders believe older technology was, in many ways, superior to today’s offerings. Oculus founder Palmer Luckey and Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian publicly lamented the perceived decline in aesthetic and experiential qualities of modern tech, sparking discussion about the rising trend of tech nostalgia and its potential impact on future designs.
The conversation, which took place on Wednesday, wasn’t a rejection of technological advancement itself, but a critique of its presentation. Both Luckey and Ohanian expressed a preference for the intentionality and design sensibilities of past consumer electronics, suggesting a consumer appetite for a return to simpler, more tactile experiences.
The Growing Appeal of Tech Nostalgia
Luckey and Ohanian’s comments come amidst a growing consumer trend towards revisiting and celebrating past eras of technology. This isn’t limited to tech circles; popular culture also shows a strong embrace of nostalgia with revivals and period pieces dominating entertainment. However, its manifestation within the technology sector is particularly notable.
Ohanian argued that some older products are “objectively better,” pointing to a quality of design that resonates with users even today. Luckey echoed this sentiment, noting that even younger generations are drawn to the aesthetics and intentionality of older devices, despite having no personal history with them. This suggests a deeper appreciation for design principles that may be lacking in current mainstream products.
The Rise of Physical Media
A key component of this retro tech movement is the resurgence of physical media. In contrast to the ease of streaming and digital downloads, consumers are increasingly drawn to the deliberate act of collecting and enjoying cassettes and vinyl records. Luckey specifically highlighted the process of building a music library as a lost art, emphasizing the connection fostered by the intentional curation of media.
Low-Tech Alternatives Gain Traction
Alongside a renewed interest in vintage formats, there’s also increasing demand for new devices that mimic the simplicity and form factor of older technology. The Clicks Communicator, a feature phone with a limited feature set that debuted at CES, exemplifies this trend. This device deliberately avoids the complexity and constant connectivity of modern smartphones, offering a focused communication experience. This fits into the wider trend of digital minimalism.
The creators’ observations also touch on broader discussions about user experience and the potential downsides of ubiquitous technology. Many individuals feel overwhelmed by constant connectivity and data streams, creating an environment where simpler solutions appear more appealing.
Luckey is already capitalizing on this trend with ModRetro Chromatic, a handheld gaming device released in 2024 that plays classic Game Boy cartridges. Retailing for $199, the device has been lauded by enthusiasts for its authentic design and functionality. Ohanian publicly supports the project and has expressed interest in developing his own vintage-style game.
The talk wasn’t solely focused on design and consumer preferences. Luckey offered a glimpse into his current ventures beyond the realm of virtual reality, namely his defense contractor, Anduril. His discussion unexpectedly turned to geopolitical issues towards the end of the conversation.
Luckey stated his belief that the relationship between the United States and China is heading towards an irreversible “divorce,” highlighting his past reliance on Chinese manufacturing and framing it as a potential strategic misstep. He acknowledged his role in contributing to this reliance and expressed concerns that reconciliation is unlikely. Anduril, valued at $30.5 billion as of earlier this year, is also involved in projects with the U.S. military, including collaboration with Meta on military-grade headsets.
Adding a touch of levity to the discussion, Luckey jokingly admitted to attending CES underage, using a fake ID and pretending to represent a company while still a high school student.
The future implications of this embrace of vintage aesthetics in technology remain to be seen. While it’s unlikely to halt the progress of innovation, it could lead to a more diversified market with a greater emphasis on design and user experience. Analysts will be watching for continued investment in retro-inspired tech ventures, and whether larger companies begin incorporating similar design elements into their products as a way to tap into consumer nostalgia. Further developments in material sciences and manufacturing may also play a role in creating truly authentic retro experiences in modern devices.
