For a while, landline phones seemed to have become a thing of the past. The cell phone provided the one thing the landline could not - the ability to take phone calls on the go - while smart phones added access to a world of information at one's fingertips. But even with great technology, there are drawbacks. The constant noise and accessibility of the cell phone can be more harmful than helpful, and studies are showing the impacts of too much screen time and access to social media on children. The landline is now making a comeback, finding its way into homes that it had previously been removed from. There are many resons for this growing trend, some of which are listed below:
No Google Ads
You have a conversation with your cell phone around and the next ad you see is for a product you discussed. Let's just call that one what it is - creepy. With a landline, there's no listening in and your conversation stays free from the prying ears of paid advertising dollars.
Reach Those Who are Hard to Reach
Kids at home with dead cell phones someone forgot to charge? Or did the person you're trying to reach leave their cell phone somewhere they can't hear it ringing, like the bathroom? Never fear - you can still reach them thanks to the landline phone.
Safety
Cell phones use GPS technology, so if you live in a multi-dwelling building and have an emergency, your cell phone will get emergency personnel to your address, but not your specific unit. A landline phone, on the other hand, is linked to your specific address & unit within a building. If you call from a landline in an emergency, the EMTs will know specifically where you are at thanks to your landline, even if you can't communicate that information with them.
For your Kids
Studies warn of the impacts of digital overload and social media on young people. Too much screen time and not enough play-based activity leads to higher anxiety and increased depression in children. If you want your kids to have the freedom to talk to their friends, but not so much freedom that they have all the benefits of a smartphone with social media, a landline phone is a great option. With a landline, there's no texting and no bullying in group chats - just kids talking to each other, laughing, and having actual conversations.
Call Quality
Landlines have been found to have a better sound quality and clarity than cell phones. This is helpful for those who are hearing impaired or elderly and rely on a clear connection.
Better Boundaries & Time Management
It's easy to forward your cell phone to your landline so your calls go straight to the landline when you're at home. This way, the landline phone sits in the docking station, rings when someone needs to get a hold of you, and you avoid the temptation to dive into the cell phone black hole of scrolling - saving time, focusing on what's important, and being present with those around you.