In 2026, People Embrace Analog Lifestyle, Rejecting AI Trends
As digital technology becomes a central part of everyday life, a significant trend is emerging in 2026: the embrace of an analog lifestyle. This movement reflects a growing desire to slow down and engage in traditional, hands-on activities, countering the rapid pace of digital conveniences.
The Rise of Analog Lifestyles
The acceptance of analog lifestyles is not a fleeting digital detox. Instead, it’s a cultural shift aimed at finding joy and satisfaction through tangible, offline experiences. The increasing dependency on AI for daily functions has led many to seek alternative hobbies and pastimes.
Surge in Popularity of Offline Activities
- 136%: Increase in searches for “analog hobbies” on the crafting retailer Michael’s website within six months.
- 86%: Rise in sales for guided craft kits in 2025.
- 30%-40%: Expected increase in guided craft kit sales in 2026.
- 1,200%: Surge in searches for yarn kits, associated with traditional crafting activities.
Stacey Shively, Michael’s Chief Merchandising Officer, highlighted the role of crafting in mental health, especially as individuals seek solace from screen time following the COVID-19 pandemic. The return to these activities reflects a broader societal shift towards valuing meaningful, creative outlets.
Personal Stories in the Analog Movement
Individuals embracing an analog lifestyle share poignant experiences. For instance, Shaughnessy Barker, a 25-year-old from Penticton, British Columbia, actively avoids using advanced technology. She enjoys analog activities like listening to vinyl records and engaging in craft nights.
Barker notes, “Everything is meant for profit on the internet, and nothing is meant to just be for enjoyment anymore.” She encourages her friends to connect through calls or letters instead of social media. However, balancing this lifestyle with the need to operate online for certain ventures remains a challenge.
Digital Fatigue and the Call for Change
Many participants in this movement express frustration with the effects of AI on creativity and originality. Avriel Epps, an AI researcher, coins the term “AI slop” to describe the saturated and repetitive content generated by technology. This dissatisfaction pushes individuals toward simpler, analog solutions, such as using an iPod instead of streaming services or capturing moments on film cameras.
Everyday Benefits of an Analog Approach
Adopting an analog lifestyle provides various benefits. People report feeling liberated by minimizing technological influence in their lives. Simple actions like using a physical alarm clock are seen as liberating. Epps emphasizes that the goal is not to abandon technology completely but to regain control over personal information and choices.
Spending time offline has also proven rewarding. Personal accounts reveal how engaging in hands-on activities—like knitting or reading—leads to fulfilling experiences devoid of digital distractions. Attending craft circles or participating in community events fosters connections and creativity among participants.
Conclusion
In 2026, the growing trend of adopting analog lifestyles signals a collective yearning for simplicity and authenticity. While technology continues to advance, the desire to connect with tangible experiences illustrates a transformative cultural movement. Individuals are finding value in crafting, communication, and creativity, ultimately rejecting the constraints imposed by digital saturation.
