Glenn Morrison, a 75-year-old resident of the United States, has chosen to live without a cell phone for several years. He does not plan to adopt new cellular or internet technologies because he believes a future scenario could bring a total network shutdown during natural disasters or other emergencies. He shared these views in a conversation with a national newspaper.
Living in a desert region of California, Morrison relies on ample food stocks and other resources, and maintains contact through an amateur radio setup that he operates from home. His stance reflects a long-standing preference for radio-based communication, which he sees as resilient and less vulnerable to centralized disruption.
Technology has been part of everyday life for more than a century. In radio frequency communication, portable or compact base stations can replace smartphones and laptops for many tasks. Older, retro devices can vary from handheld radios to larger units comparable in size to mid-20th-century video recorders, offering dependable communication options without relying on modern internet infrastructure.
To advocate for reduced reliance on cell phones, Morrison founded the Desert Mice, an amateur radio community with transmitters. The organization operates with a presence in Palm Springs, providing a hub for enthusiasts who prioritize radio-based communication and preparedness.
One clear advantage highlighted by Morrison is the readiness a radio amateur can bring to emergencies. During events such as forest fires, earthquakes, or disease outbreaks, a radio network can function when the internet or cellular networks are down. In such circumstances, radio operators can help coordinate emergency communications and maintain contact with family and friends, preserving lines of support and information when standard channels fail.
Media coverage has noted growing interest in the United States as more people explore amateur radio as an alternative means of staying connected during crises. The trend includes purchasing and using radios to communicate directly with others, sidestepping mainstream devices like smartphones and personal computers when needed for reliability and independence.
Meanwhile, discussions in the broader tech community have addressed ways to reduce constant screen scrolling on social media. Some observers advise readers to switch smartphone displays to grayscale as a method to curb compulsive use, though professionals have questioned the effectiveness and practicality of this approach for real-world behavior change.