Tag: #nostalgia

FUJIFILM instax mini Evo Cinema Review

The FUJIFILM instax mini Evo Cinema has been one of the most questioned about devices I have had to date and quite the talking point at home and when out and about especially when testing it out along with the instax mini Link+ smartphone printer.

This camera also comes with an on board printer and an app which transfers data from the camera to your phone and you can edit shots in there and see all your videos an photos you have taken.

This is a one handed device looks cool and full of switches and dials and the main feautre is the dial that allows you to turn back time giving your videos that retro look we have some samples below so you can see what this is all about. You can pick between the 1920s up to the 2020s on the dial and see the differences with them.

On the side there is the on/off button still and cine and framing button along with the zoom and print options. You can also adjust the lens for more effects and there is a clip on eye piece there. All of this might sound cumbersome but it is not and still looks super cool and again you can print on the go which is neat. On the back is an LCD monitors a naviwheel for adjusting settings and several other buttons one being a back button play button and menu button.

On the front is your adjustable lens your mirror for selfies for photos and videos your flash and the capture button for videos and photos, the clips can be up to 15 seconds for videos only.

After you go through the settings let the nostalgia begin with videos and photos you can replay or look and images and videos on the camera itself or have them auto transfer to your smartphone and do some more like editing and so on, we have some clips to shows you with different years and editing below..

Overall this is a niche camera but fun and looks great, there was some lag during testing and battery life not great but enough for what most will use it for and with USB-C charging it will charge faster than previous cameras and it is a joy to use looks great and a great conversation starter and not forgetting you do not need a separate printer as there is on built in which makes this shine even more.

 

Mini Evo App

 

Main Features: 

Eras Dial™

The mini Evo Cinema hybrid instant camera features a first for instax™ cameras – the Eras Dial™, which allows users to apply photo effects from 10 different eras to their image – from the grainy, pale tones of the 1930s, to a 1960s effect inspired by 8mm film cameras, to the vibrant colors of the 1980s, and to the sharp, rich imagery of the 2020s. Each era is designed to capture the look and feel of the imagery of that time.

Degree Control Dial

Content created in each era can be fine-tuned with any of the 10 effects from the Degree Control Dial on the lens. By simply rotating the dial to precisely adjust color, contrast, and noise expression – users can create up to 10 creative variations per era.

Frame Switch

Once an era is chosen and the intensity of the era is selected via the Degree Control Dial, users can continue to personalize by adding a frame to every shot or video clip utilizing the Frame Switch. There’s a frame for every era, each paying homage to the characteristics, media, and playback devices that defined that time.

CINE/STILL Modes

Users can easily switch between “CINE” and ”STILL” modes to capture either a video or photo, respectively, with ease. In CINE mode, users can shoot a series of clips – up to 15 seconds in total – and the camera will stitch them into one smooth video automatically. Via the free, downloadable instax mini EvoTM smartphone app, users can connect via Bluetooth® and extend video creations to 30 seconds by adding or reordering clips.

Zoom Lever

The mini Evo Cinema features built-in digital zoom. The tactile Zoom Lever lets you dial up the intimacy of the shot or pull back for greater scope and more atmosphere.

“My Gallery”

Within the instax mini Evo™ app, the My Gallery section provides users a secure place to store the images and videos they create, segmented into categories including Favorites, Printed, Video, Photo, Projects. Through this function, users can also save printed images digitally to their smartphone’s camera roll, finished with the iconic instaxTM mini border.

Video Printing

Users can access videos via a one-of-a-kind instax™ mini instant photo printed with a QR code ready to be scanned and played back on a smartphone. Video is captured as standard at 600 x 800, and with the 2020 Era selection is captured at 1080 x 1440.

Timeless Design

With sleek black, vertical grip design (inspired by Fujifilm’s “FUJICA Single-8”, an 8mm camera introduced in 1965); and analog-inspired details, this hybrid instant camera is meticulously crafted for those who appreciate tactile functions alongside beauty and elegance.

Additional camera features include:

 

  • Remote shooting capability (via app)
  • Integrated Selfie Mirror and Self-Timer
  • 1.54-inch high-resolution LCD Monitor
  • Print Lever
  • The camera features an analog-style printing operation lever – lift and twist to print a photo.
  • Accessories
      • The mini Evo Cinema includes viewfinder and grip attachments, and a premium hand strap.
  • USB-C & Micro SD Card Slots
  • Integrated flash/continuous light source

 

BUY visit https://instax.ie/cameras/mini-evo-cinema/

Other instax reviews

Video Review 

Tune Into Nostalgia: Skullcandy Meet the World of Peanuts

Skullcandy have been quite of late and now they finally came out with something new for fans  to take a look at, known for great partnerships over the last few years they have launched a new pair of earbuds and turn up the volume on nostalgia with a playful new collaboration celebrating 75 years of Peanuts — the timeless cultural classic of friendship and fun.

Available in four colours and featuring Snoopy, Woodstock, and the gang, the limited-edition collection combines Skullcandy’s much loved Dime Evo earbuds with the lighthearted spirit of Charles Schulz’s beloved characters. Just like Snoopy dancing in his doghouse, these headphones bring together joy, imagination, and world-class audio making then the perfect gift just in time for the Christmas season!

They are now live here on HMV and on Skullcandy’s website from 23rd September and are £49.99.

 

See our Skullcandy Reviews

TF2 Skins and Items: Are They Still Worth Trading in 2025?

The Team Fortress 2 item economy remains active more than a decade after launch. Valve’s cosmetic system introduced wearables, weapons, unusual effects, and Australium variants. Some items sell for high real-world prices, fuelled by nostalgia and rarity. But the question still stands: are these items worth trading in 2025?

Trading routes and platforms have changed, especially with mainstream services joining the scene. If you want to trade vintage hats, limited-edition Australium weapons, or Unusual effects, understanding how value changes becomes important. Below is an in-depth look at TF2’s trading scene and what the future holds.

The Value Behind TF2’s Cosmetic Items and Rare Skins

Unlike other games where skins can affect gameplay, TF2 skins are purely for aesthetic purposes. The primary cosmetic types are weapons, hats, and skins, with some being rarer than others.

Their value is determined by several factors: rarity, demand, and aesthetics. Unusuals, which are rare hats that come with special effects, are among the most coveted items in the game. They can range in price from modest amounts to thousands of dollars, depending on the rarity and desirability of the effect.

The TF2 economy is dynamic, with prices fluctuating based on market trends and demand. While some items lose value over time, limited-edition or nostalgic skins have maintained or even increased in worth.

How TF2 Trading Works on Modern Marketplaces

In recent years, trading TF2 items has moved from in-game exchanges to specialized online marketplaces. Platforms like the Steam Community Market were pioneers in offering a streamlined way to buy, sell, and trade tf2 skins and other cosmetics. While Steam remains a popular choice, newer marketplaces have emerged with better rates, more flexibility, and access to a wider selection of items.

Modern marketplaces allow users to set their own prices and choose to accept or decline offers. The key benefit of these platforms is faster transactions, plus a broader pool of buyers and sellers.

Some platforms also offer extras like price tracking, item valuation tools, and trade history. These help traders better assess the market value of their items and make more informed buying or selling decisions.

Unusuals and Australiums: Key Milestones in TF2’s History

TF2’s items have more than just cosmetic value; some hold historical significance within the game’s community. Two such examples, Unusuals and Australiums, have played a prominent role in shaping the market.

Unusuals—The Crown Jewel of TF2 Cosmetics

Unusuals are among the most iconic and sought-after items in TF2. These hats feature special effects like floating particles or unique animations, which allow them to stand out and become ultimate status symbols.

Introduced as a novelty, Unusuals quickly became central to the game’s economy, with players willing to pay large sums for rare hats with desirable effects. The market for cosmetic items, especially Unusuals, is highly volatile, with prices fluctuating based on the rarity of the effect and the hat’s popularity.

Australiums—Rare and Nostalgic Collectibles

These rare and highly valued weapons in TF2 are known for their unique gold appearance and limited availability. They were once more common, and their scarcity today makes them highly sought after by collectors. Many view Australiums as nostalgic symbols of TF2’s early days, which has helped them retain significant value, despite the introduction of newer content in the game.

Where to Trade TF2 Items Today: DMarket

DMarket is a popular marketplace known for its multi-game support, where users can trade not only TF2 items but also skins from other popular games like CS2 and Dota 2. It provides more flexibility and a larger range of items compared to other platforms.

Here are some key features of DMarket:

  • Better rates: Competitive pricing options and fees that offer traders more value.
  • User-friendly interface: Easy-to-navigate platform for both beginners and experienced traders.
  • Secure transactions: Ensures safe and trustworthy trades with its verified marketplace system.
  • Price tracking tools: Features to track the market value of your items and help make informed trading decisions.

DMarket stands out as a comprehensive platform that meets the needs of the growing TF2 trading community, which creates a broader and more accessible marketplace.

The Niche TF2 Trading Community and Profit Potential

Throughout 2025, the TF2 trading community has remained a niche but passionate group of players. The market has seen shifts over the years, with certain items rising and falling in value, but the community’s enthusiasm for rare skins hasn’t wavered. Traders continue to find ways to make a profit, and some earn a substantial amount by buying low and selling high.

However, trading is not a foolproof method for earning money. The market can be unpredictable, with some items losing value as new skins are introduced. To make a profit, you need to stay informed about trends and understand the demands of the community. While opportunities for profit exist, there is always a risk of loss in the dynamic marketplace.

Retro Is In: 7 Reasons We’re Still Obsessed with Classic Digital Entertainment

Walk into a tech expo, browse Reddit threads, or tune into the latest gaming podcast, and something becomes obvious pretty fast—retro is back. Not just back like a passing trend, but back like it never really left. There’s something magnetic about the clunky charm of ’80s arcade cabinets and the glitchy intros of ’90s games. And let’s face it—modern life, with its endless updates and dopamine loops, could use a little pixelated soul.

Digital Throwbacks, Modern Twists

It’s not just the visuals or the soundtracks that are making a comeback—it’s the entire experience. Think of how modern streaming platforms are now spotlighting classic anime, or how bands are releasing new tracks on cassette for that lo-fi charm. 

Even some online casinos are tapping into the retro wave, gamifying their platforms with nostalgic visuals and arcade-inspired interfaces. Payment apps are also riding this retro-tech revival, supporting niche hobbies and alternative entertainment formats. Many platforms now accept options like Cash App, offering fast, private transactions with bonus eligibility, strong security, and a user-friendly interface. It’s a seamless match for today’s digital culture. Read more on Card Player to see how this blend of tech and entertainment is evolving. Just another way the old and new are teaming up to keep things interesting. 

Simply put, this blend of vintage style and modern function isn’t just about aesthetics—it taps into something deeper. It reminds us that sometimes the best experiences come from keeping things simple, which brings us to our first reason.

1. Simplicity Still Hits Harder Than You’d Think

Back in the day, games didn’t try to do everything. There were no cinematic cutscenes or fifty-button combos. Just a joystick, a start screen, and maybe a bleep or two if you were lucky. And you know what? That was more than enough.

There’s something beautifully straightforward about that era. You weren’t bogged down by microtransactions or cloud saves. It was pure gameplay, built to challenge you and frustrate you—sometimes in equal measure. Today, we spend hours navigating overly ambitious open worlds. Sometimes, a round of Frogger or Galaga is the perfect reminder that good things don’t always need to be complicated.

2. That Pixel Art? Yeah, It Aged Like Fine Wine

High-res visuals definitely have their moment. But there’s something timeless about the bold, blocky charm of pixel art. The kind you’d find flickering on early handhelds or embedded in the bright sprites of NES classics. It’s not trying to impress with realism—it leans into its own visual language. That’s probably why these retro gaming essentials still hold up today. They’re unapologetically pixelated, and that’s part of the magic.

And here’s the kicker: artists today are deliberately choosing this style, not because they have to, but because they want to. It’s not about nostalgia alone—it’s about style. It’s about evoking feelings with limitations. Modern indie games like Celeste and Shovel Knight don’t just lean on retro looks; they elevate them.

3. Physical Media Has Soul

In a world that’s increasingly digital, there’s something undeniably satisfying about slotting in a cartridge, hearing that click, and watching a game boot up (or not—looking at you, NES).

Cassettes, cartridges, even floppy disks—yeah, they’re fiddly, but they’re real. Physical objects hold memories in a way cloud saves just don’t. That Game Boy from your childhood? It’s not just plastic. It’s a portal. Maybe even a little time machine, if you’re in the right mood.

Today’s tech gives us convenience. But it’s yesterday’s tech that gave us charm. That’s why hardware like the Analogue Pocket or the Evercade isn’t just a gimmick. It’s a love letter.

4. Music You Can Actually Hum

Ever tried humming the theme from a modern shooter? Good luck. Now try the Tetris theme. Or the Super Mario Bros. overworld track. Nailed it, didn’t you?

Chiptune and synth-driven soundtracks didn’t just accompany the action—they became part of our cultural DNA. Some of these tunes, composed under wild technical constraints, turned out to be masterclasses in minimalism. And guess what? Synthwave is booming again. Artists across the world are reviving that pulsing, analog sound, and it’s spreading from playlists into soundtracks, adverts, and even fashion runways.

5. The Stories Meant Something (Even When They Made Zero Sense)

Let’s be honest: retro game plots were often bananas. A plumber chasing mushrooms? An intergalactic bounty hunter raised by birds? None of it made much sense—and yet, somehow, it worked.

Why? Because these stories didn’t try to be Oscar contenders. They focused on vibe, imagination, and world-building through gameplay. They left enough gaps for our minds to fill in. And that made them personal. Today, there’s a growing craving for games and digital media that don’t try to explain everything. We’re craving mystery again. Retro content lets us engage more, not less, by doing just that.

6. It’s Not Just Nostalgia—It’s Identity

Sure, part of the appeal is nostalgia. No denying that. But there’s more going on. For many, retro gaming wasn’t just a pastime—it was an origin story. It’s where tech curiosity was born. Where social circles formed. Where a weird love of pixelated explosions somehow evolved into an engineering degree.

Wearing a Sonic the Hedgehog tee or booting up a Commodore 64 isn’t just sentiment. It’s a signal. A handshake between generations of players and creators. And in an age where digital culture moves faster than ever, having anchors like these helps keep us grounded.

7. Modern Tech, Retro Soul

Now here’s where things get spicy. The past isn’t just being remembered—it’s being remixed. Companies are fusing retro sensibilities with today’s tech to make something entirely new. We’ve got handheld consoles with OLED screens playing ROMs from 1987. There are apps designed to mimic CRT scanlines. New games built with old engines.

Even streaming platforms are curating retro collections. It’s not just for die-hard fans either—curious newcomers are hopping on board, eager to see what all the fuss is about. In a sense, retro is evolving. It’s still weird and wonderful, but now it’s accessible too. And that’s a beautiful thing.

Old Pixels, New Purpose

This isn’t just about reliving the past. It’s about preserving what worked and reimagining it for today. Retro digital entertainment isn’t stuck in amber. It’s alive. Breathing. Inspiring everything from music production to app development.

Whether it’s fashion with neon flare, digital synth revivals, or a reskinned Game Boy emulator running on a smartphone, this revival proves one thing: we don’t move forward by forgetting where we came from. We move forward by remixing the best bits and keeping the pixelated heart beating.

So, yeah. Retro’s back. But let’s be honest—it never really left.

instax WIDE Evo Hybrid Camera Review

The instax WIDE Evo Hybrid Camera has been the latest camera I have been testing over the last few weeks and as always with instax it is a step back in time but current and if you are a fan of all things nostalgia you know the drill with these cameras we have been reviewing for some years now.

This camera again is bug but so what, might not be ideal to put in your bag but doable for some if you are one to take photos when out with your friends and family it is a talking point when taken out so and people do not realise instant photos can still be done like rather than take one on your phone have this camera at hand and get your photo there and then.

There is lots going on with the WIDE Evo hybrid when it comes to features and several buttons to mess around with for me an overkill I am a point and shoot but having played around with this I can see why these features are there and again I am not one to edit photos once taken either but there is features galore all listed below and the editing options at hand.

With the big screen you see more and you also have wide angle shooting with this camera it is pretty cool all the options here and the array of buttons to play around with is a photographers dream. You have your focus lens,  You have ten lens effects and ten film effects to begin with the dial on both sides you can scroll through them all we demo all this in the video review and also some of this in the unboxing video

There is a button up top for film style too with cool effects and then you have the lens to chose effects that suit you then you move down to the navi key and other buttons under the LCD display for more options and of course in image editing options, there is so much here to do for the real photography enthusiast. You have a dedicated shutter key this time it is not a button but a lever I would call it and below is the wide angle switch and you can notice the difference here unlike you can even on some phones today. You get your power on/off dial too this time rather than a button.

The stand out feature probably is the print crank which takes you back to days of old here and again people were somewhat looking at me funny when I took it out one night explaining to them how this works and what these cameras do.

You can add a micro SD card if you want and again print images from this and connect to the app if you wish and of course connect to their printers which is also cool. as for the image quality it is decent you can load them on to your laptop if you like and scroll through them there or the screen on the camera itself you have the best of both worlds here you can also connect to your phone and share.

instax WIDE Evo app

 

Features

Integrated Wide Angle Option

WIDE Evo features the widest lens on any instax™ instant camera, at 16mm. Users can choose to take images at the standard width, or opt for Wide-angle Mode, which maximizes the camera’s lens capabilities to get all of the action into the photo.

10 Lens Effects x 10 Film Effect Options

Like the instax mini Evo™ instant camera, WIDE Evo features 10 lens effects and 10 film effect options, offering 100 different combinations for users to express themselves. WIDE Evo adds Degree Control, which allows the user to determine the degree to which each lens effect is applied to their image.

Enhance The Look Of The Image

WIDE Evo offers 6 film styles to customize images even further, with options including normal, a cinematic look with black bars across the top and bottom of the image, a classic film strip look, a traditional date/time stamp format, a contact sheet look, or a vintage collodion process effect.

Selfies, Storage, and More

WIDE Evo also features a 3.5-inch LCD Monitor on the back of the camera to allow users to view added effects and edits and is supported by a built-in Lithium-ion battery which enables the camera to print up to 100 images per charge, depending on the specific use case. A Micro SD card slot (Micro SD Card sold separately) ensures there’s plenty of room to store additional images for later enjoyment (approximately 45 images can be stored in the camera’s internal memory), while the Selfie Mirror helps users nail selfies every time.

Film Styles

Exercise your creative control with five film styles (plus standard output). From cinematic to date stamp to film strip, each one delivers a unique analog-like effect burnt into the image to set your pictures apart.

Normal / Cinematic / Collodion Process / Contact Sheet / Date Stamp / Film Strip

Degree Control Dial

Satisfy your vision with the Degree Control Dial. Simply twist the lens to play with your chosen lens effects, creating subtle or dramatic images (and everything in between).

Wide-angle Lens

The instax WIDE Evo™ expands your view to capture more of the action, as it happens. And by using a single compact lens, whether Wide-angle mode is switched on or off, image quality is truly impressive.

Design Focused

Analog aesthetics

Finished in a modern, yet sophisticated design, and sporting a premium charcoal grey body with jet-black colour accents, this hybrid camera looks as good as it shoots.

Print Crank

Reminiscent of an analog experience, rotate the print crank located on the side of the camera to begin the printing of your latest creations.

Shutter Lever

Press the shutter lever down and feel the satisfying, responsive ‘click’ of the shutter as each photo is taken. Want to ‘lock’ the focus? Half press the lever.

Lens Cap

A premium lens needs a premium lens cap to protect it when not in use. Which is why the instax WIDE Evo™ comes with a handy detachable lens cap.

Wide-angle Switch

Effortlessly switch from wide-angle scenes to intimate moments using the wide-angle switch (handily positioned on the front, so you don’t have to take your eye off the shot).

Easy scrolling

On the left you have the Lens Effect Dial, on the right the Film Effect Dial. Both satisfyingly manual. Both easy to scroll through. Each perfect for turning the ordinary into extraordinary.

Degree Control Dial

Circling the lens you’ll find the Degree Control Dial, a ‘disc’ that your fingers can glide round, helping you change the degree of your shot to discover your exact vision.

Selfie Mirror

Some only see what’s in front of them. Not you. The selfie mirror, positioned on the front of this hybrid camera, lets you capture what’s usually behind the camera… you!

USB-C Charging

Unleash the full potential of the instax WIDE Evo™ by keeping it fully charged. With a USB-Type C port, plugging in for power couldn’t be easier.

LCD Screen

The high-resolution LCD screen on the rear gives you complete accuracy – what you see is what you print – helping you turn your vision into a physical, WIDE-format photo.

Tripod Mount

Fully equipped with a threaded hole, the instax WIDE Evo™ is tripod-ready. Useful for remote shooting, night-time shots or composites that require that extra steady ‘hand’.

Printed images, shared

For safe keeping

Insert a microSD card (sold separately) into the microSD card slot to back up your images – perfect for ultimate peace of mind, and ideal for those who want to ‘carry’ even more photographs.

Prints. From your camera roll

Not all photos are lucky enough to be shot on the instax WIDE Evo™. Which is why this hybrid instant camera also accepts shots from your smartphone, before dutifully printing them.

Inspiration at your fingertips

Explore the Discover Feed tab in-app for a daily boost of inspiration. A place where you can see and download the settings from other users’ images, ready to be used when the shot calls for it.

Social zone

Instantly share your WIDE format images via your smartphone. Pair the instax WIDE Evo™ with your smartphone, save your instax™ photos as digitally framed shots, then post your favourites to your social in a variety of creative templates.

Conclusion

Over this is a really cool camera with lots of features on board and takes decent photos, with the ability to share and print said photos via your phone or compatible printer makes it even more enjoyable to use and is a great talking point when taken out in a crowd.

Other instax reviews

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Video Review

The Benefits of Playing Simpler Video Games From Time to Time

In the world of video gaming, we should endeavour to just keep it simple. Sometimes, there are benefits to moving from all-singing, all-dancing complexity to simple video games, and while this may seem like heresy, we’ve all got to dial it and remember that keeping things simple in our video gaming efforts can bring about a whole heap of positives, including the following:

A Pathway to Mastery

While simple games may lack in concept, the reality is that many classic games are difficult to truly master. Games like Sudoku and chess are excellent examples that have been perplexing people almost permanently. This means a satisfying challenge as players improve their skills over time. It can be incredibly complex to navigate modern gaming because of the sheer volume of functions, and this is why sometimes the simpler game mechanics, such as Sega Mega Drive and retro consoles, may have fewer features and are simpler. But this is a lesson in simplicity in every part of our lives. When we encourage ourselves to hone our abilities on simple and focused mechanics, we can achieve mastery and provide a solid gaming foundation that helps us in other aspects of our gaming journey.

Approachability and User Friendliness

Sometimes we just need to remember that simple is far more effective. Simpler games like Tetris are easy to learn and pick up, meaning that they are highly approachable for players of all skill levels. So rather than spending time fumbling with the controls trying to get into a game experience that we think we should be making the most of but getting frustrated in the process, simpler games like retro games with a handful of buttons make it a far more welcoming gameplay experience.

The Nostalgia Benefits

Nearly anybody of a certain age can look back on their childhood with fondness and remember playing games on the Commodore 64 or Super Nintendo. The enduring appeal of an old-fashioned game demonstrates that complex mechanics or graphics are not always necessary to provide an engaging gaming experience. We live in a world where games are heavy on content, and sometimes we need a palate cleanser. Shorter games with minimal rounds were all the rage in the 1990s. Games like The Terminator on the Mega Drive had four levels, providing an opportunity to enjoy gaming without being overburdened. That’s not to say they were games with more than a fair share of challenges. Flashback was another excellent game that had a handful of levels, but was densely layered.

While modern games are great for your memory and learning, sometimes we need to remember that simple can be far more sinister. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic escape or a change of pace, complexity is something that we should shun in the modern world, not just in gaming but in life. Sometimes we can benefit from keeping things simple. Those older games like Pac-Man or Donkey Kong, as well as rhythm games such as Rock Band and Guitar Hero, can be a welcoming change from the norm.

 

Could You be Sitting on a Gadget Goldmine? #Tech #Gadgets #CurrysPcWorld

Adjusting to the ‘new normal’ can be easier said than done and looking back at the good old days can be a nice reprieve from the realities of the pandemic. The past is very present in our culture, including in the TV shows we watch (such as Stranger Things and Hollywood), memorabilia we keep hold of from way back when, and the resurfacing of “Throwback Thursday” photos. It is clear we are a nostalgic nation.

A recent study by Currys PC World sent to us surveyed 2042 UK residents to unearth why the nation loves to reminisce on days gone by. From what decade we miss the most and how nostalgia makes us feel, to who yearns for the past the most, we reveal it all. Like me there is many collectors out there and I have one of the biggest collection of NOKIA devices in Europe and have other collectibles in mobile phones too but you could have something worth a few quid in your drawer and perhaps now might be a time to check, let us know what you have.

 

 

Old is the new “new”: Nostalgia can be your next side hustle 

Even in today’s digital age, vintage gadgets can remind us of a time when life was as simple as the technology in our phones, games consoles, and music devices. And thanks to this nostalgia, you can make money selling vintage technology, on the basis they are in working condition. When it comes to buying vintage gadgets, people are willing to spend more money on older generations of phones (34%), followed by music devices (32%) and gaming consoles (21%).

Those old mobiles sitting in your drawer gathering dust may also be gathering interest. Currys PC World looked at some of the classic mobile phones and found that the Motorola DynaTac has increased in value by 147% between 1983 and 2020. The original iPhone has also appreciated in value by 264% between 2003 and 2020. We wanted to know who is willing to pay the most for vintage gadgets and here’s what was found:

·         Over a fifth (21%) of top-tier earners are willing to pay more money for vintage record players than the latest technology

·         Women are willing to pay more (30%) for mid-generation phones than men (27%)

·         28% of mid-tier earners sell their items on to make more money

·         Over 1 in 10 people are willing to spend more money on mid-generation games consoles than the latest technology

·         35% of people aged 55+ are willing to pay out for mid-generation phones

The most nostalgic city in the U.K.  

The nation is full of idiosyncrasies and it turns out that opinions on nostalgia are no different, as how we reminisce differs from city to city across Britain. Londoners love the most up-to-date games consoles (33%) and are willing to pay a higher price for it. Whereas Bristol, Birmingham and Plymouth (13%) are willing to spend more on vintage games consoles. When it comes to the most missed decades, Belfast longs for the 80s the most (47%) but Leeds (30%) and Liverpool (38%) miss the 60s the most. Sheffield residents miss the 90s (26%)– the decade that Spice Girls found international stardom – the most.

·         Norwich residents are the most nostalgic in the U.K. (59%)

·         Newcastle residents are the least nostalgic (11%)

·         Southampton residents get the most stressed when thinking about the past (8%)

·         Plymouth is a city of technology hoarders, as 43% keep their vintage technology

·         30% of Edinburgh residents give their technology away

The battle of the sexes: Women are more nostalgic than men  

Reminiscing is a very personal experience and impacts some people more so than others. There are all sorts of things that can trigger nostalgia and bring on a whole host of emotions too. According to the research, it turns out that vintage games consoles are three times (14%) more likely to trigger nostalgia in men than women (4%), which could explain why they are almost twice as likely (12%) to buy them than women. Music, films and chatting to family are most likely to trigger feelings of nostalgia in women.

·         Music triggers nostalgia in women (60%) more than men (50%)

·         Men (6%) feel more stressed than women when reminiscing (3%)

·         Men are twice as likely (14%) to see nostalgia as an avoidance of the present than women (7%)

More information on the study can be found here: https://techtalk.currys.co.uk/gadgets/mobile-phones/nostalgia-why-britain-loves-to-look-back/

Methodology

Survey data was collected through Censuswide with 2042 participants across the U.K. All mobile phone value data was based on the original retail price and the highest asking price for a working model on eBay (25/05/2020). Mobile retail price data was sourced from:

·         https://www.knowyourmobile.com/phones/the-history-of-mobile-phones-from-1973-to-2008-the-handsets-that-made-it-all-happen-d58/

·         https://www.oldest.org/technology/cell-phones/

·         https://qz.com/1450916/how-much-every-apple-iphone-costs-today/

Whether it’s because of the music, the fashion or the simpler technology, looking back to a bygone era is a popular pastime for the nation. With the right SIM-free phone, it’s easy to enjoy the simplicity of the past without getting lockdown with expensive contracts.