As I open the sleek box to reveal a near exact replica of my first phone —the Nokia 3210 – I’m transported to the late 1990’s. Back then, it was all about SMS rates and prepaid plan allowances, and Snake was the ultimate (and only) game. Now, here we are again, decades later, with a reboot of this trusty little icon from HMD, and it feels like time has rewound in the best way.
Here are my thoughts after a hands-on test of the Nokia 3210. I’m on a quest to find the best first phone options for my kids as I aim to keep them connected in a way that’s consistent with healthy, developing young minds.
Light As Air
The Nokia 3210 is unbelievably light. Picking it up feels like holding, well, nearly nothing at all. Compared to the heavyweight smartphones that dominate today’s market, this one’s a breeze to carry. Refreshingly, it actually fits in my pocket without making me feel like I’m lugging around a brick.
Can the phone people and the pocket people PLEASE connect on 2025’s pants designs?
Hello, Nostalgia
Turning it on, the familiar Nokia logo lit up, and I couldn’t help but smile. It was like an old friend saying hello. My first instinct? Check for *Snake.* It took me seconds to find it, and let me tell you, Snake’s had a tiny glow-up: with bright little apples and a sharper design, it’s even more fun. There’s something about that game that’s as satisfying as ever, a refreshing change from today’s endlessly complex apps with their Rewards FOMO and Tamagotchi level consequences.
Connection Minus Distraction
With limited internet access (Opera Mini is the closest you’ll get to browsing), this phone is a great choice for staying connected without diving into the digital vortex. Calls and texts? Absolutely. You can even use 4G to get quick info on-the-go, but this device won’t have you mindlessly scrolling for hours. It’s a gentle nudge to look up and be present, reminding us that sometimes, less is more.
SMS Goes Old School
Typing out texts on a numeric keypad again takes patience—it’s like the anti-TMI safeguard we didn’t know we needed. It also means the focus is on keeping messages short and sweet, or maybe even picking up the phone to chat. How refreshing is that?
Ready for Its Close-Up?
Now, let’s talk camera. A 2MP snapper sits on the back, perfect for those low-res, vintage-esque shots that are actually kind of endearing. Sure, it’s no iPhone, but maybe that’s a good thing. With this kind of camera, it’s less about capturing every second and more about enjoying the moment.
A Good First Step for New Phone Owners & Digital Detoxers
As a mum navigating the “first phone” stage, I’m on the lookout for something that keeps my child connected without opening the door to full-blown smartphone life. This Nokia is my first review, and so far it fits the bill—basic, reliable, and affordable. At $120, it’s a solid option for peace of mind, a “just in case you need to reach me” phone with a big dose of nostalgia and just enough gaming to keep bus-stop boredom at bay.
“I believe that the next few years will see the rise of “dumbphone only” venues, events and activities as we begin to value privacy, experience and human connection over constant connection and endless filming”
I recommend the Nokia 3210 for anyone who wants to truly switch off, even just from time to time. It’s cheap enough for part time use and removes the option (and therefore the desire) to grab for your phone “just to check”, risking the inevitable “can you just” and “did you know” distractions during times when we simply want to be present.
Toward a Safer Digital Future
Women Love Tech is proud to support the “36 Months” initiative to raise the social media age from 13 to 16, currently before parliament in Australia. Studies show that waiting can have big mental health benefits for teens, and our government is listening.
Applying this kind of pressure in Australia will pave the way for big tech companies to create safer spaces for our teens all around the World.
If this resonates with you, take a look at the SXSW panel on this topic and add your voice.
FYI: I made both of my children watch this panel with me. It’s incredibly powerful as part of your “can I get a phone Mum” discussions and basic cyber education.
Stay Cyber-safe out there!
Xoxo, Elise
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