12 Things Boomers Used to Love That Gen Z Doesn’t Care About
Baby Boomers, born in a time of post-war prosperity and technological marvels like the moon landing, have a deep affection for items and practices that defined their youth. Meanwhile, Generation Z, the digital natives who have grown up with the internet, smartphones, and social media, often finds these boomer favorites to be outdated or unnecessary. This list explores some of the quintessential things Boomers adored that have fallen out of favor with Gen Z.
Landline Phones
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Remember those clunky phones with tangled cords? Boomers relied on landlines for all their calls, but Gen Z prefers smartphones with every app imaginable. According to Pew Research, only 43% of households still have landlines. For Gen Z, the landline is a relic of the past, replaced by sleek and multifunctional mobile devices.
Print Newspapers
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Boomers loved the ritual of reading the morning paper, enjoying the smell of fresh ink and rustling pages, while Gen Z opts for digital news sources like apps and websites. Statistics show that digital news consumption has doubled in the past decade. For the younger generation, real-time updates and convenience outweigh the nostalgic value of print.
Cable TV
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Flipping through channels was an evening staple for Boomers, but Gen Z is all about streaming services like Netflix and Hulu. Nielsen reports that Netflix itself accounts for over 7% of total TV viewing. The fixed schedules and commercials of cable TV seem like a hassle compared to the control and variety offered by streaming platforms.
Encyclopedias
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Encyclopedias once represented a wealth of knowledge for Boomers, who proudly displayed hefty volumes on their bookshelves, whereas Gen Z turns to Google and Wikipedia for instant information. The internet offers more up-to-date content at their fingertips. Encyclopedias, though cherished, have become more decorative than functional in the digital age.
Physical Maps
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Boomers navigated road trips with folded maps, mastering the art of map reading, while Gen Z depends on GPS and smartphone navigation apps. These days, young drivers opt to use digital maps. The ease and accuracy of real-time directions make paper maps seem cumbersome and outdated.
Fax Machines
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Fax machines were a workplace essential for Boomers, used for sending important documents, but Gen Z finds the concept slow and bizarre. Email and cloud storage have revolutionized document sharing. With advancements in technology, fax machines are now seen as relics of a bygone era.
Department Stores
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Boomers enjoyed browsing department stores for all their needs, but Gen Z prefers the convenience of online shopping and fast deliveries. As per the National Retail Federation, e-commerce sales peaked at 19% in April 2020. The click of a button now offers more variety and ease than traditional shopping trips.
Handwritten Letters
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Boomers valued the personal touch of handwritten letters, taking the time to write and send them, while Gen Z favors texting and instant messaging. The speed and convenience of digital communication are making letters feel impractical. Though nostalgic, handwritten correspondence is rare in the fast-paced modern world.
Cash Payments
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Carrying cash was the norm for Boomers, but Gen Z prefers digital payments through apps and cards. According to a study by Visa, 65% of Gen Z uses digital wallets. Handling physical money feels unnecessary and cumbersome when digital transactions are quick and easy.
Libraries
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Boomers spent hours researching and reading in libraries, whereas Gen Z relies on the internet for most of their informational needs. 54% of Gen Z and millennials visited a physical library at least once in a 12-month period. While libraries are still valued, online resources offer more immediate access to information.
Rotary Phones
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Dialing numbers on rotary phones was second nature to Boomers, but Gen Z can’t imagine the patience required. Modern smartphones have made rotary phones charming but impractical. With touchscreens and voice commands, the convenience of today’s technology highlights how far we’ve come from the days of rotary dialing.
Chain Restaurants
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Boomers had their favorite chain restaurants for family outings, while Gen Z leans towards local eateries and unique dining experiences. The National Restaurant Association notes a growing preference for independent restaurants among younger consumers. Authenticity and variety trump the familiarity of chain restaurants for today’s youth.
Formal Wear
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Formal attire represents the pinnacle of elegance and is reserved for events such as weddings, upscale fundraisers, ceremonies, and black-tie galas. Boomers dressed up for various occasions, adhering to strict dress codes, while Gen Z embraces casual and comfortable fashion trends. Formal attire feels restrictive and outdated to them, with comfort being the new style mantra.
Network TV
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Boomers eagerly awaited their favorite shows on network TV, but Gen Z binge-watches entire seasons on streaming platforms. The latter is deeply immersed in technology and media, prioritizing activities such as streaming videos, music, and gaming. They show less interest in traditional TV and radio, instead preferring digital experiences like podcasts.
CDs and DVDs
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Collecting CDs and DVDs was a hobby for Boomers, offering a tangible way to enjoy music and movies, while Gen Z prefers digital downloads and streaming services. The Recording Industry Association of America reports that streaming now accounts for 83% of music revenue. Physical media feels clunky and unnecessary as the digital shift takes over.