Retro tech is making a surprising comeback, and CDs are leading the charge. According to the Recording Industry Association of America, CD sales are up by a staggering 58.6% in the first half of 2026, with 17.5 million units sold. This growth follows a tough 2025, where CD sales fell by 7.8%. For Gen Z, this trend represents a longing for a tech-free era of simpler, more controlled engagement.

The resurgence of interest in old-school gadgets is not limited to CDs. Dumbphones, typewriters, and landlines are also experiencing a revival. Startups like Tin Can and Light are capitalizing on this trend, creating products that emphasize functionality over frills. Meanwhile, consumers are digging up their grandparents' old gadgets at thrift stores and online.

While the trend is impressive, it’s important to note that this growth is not without its caveats. The RIAA switched from calculating retail value to wholesale value in 2025, making the 2024 and 2025 figures non-comparable. However, the underlying story remains: CD sales were on the decline before this year’s unexpected rebound. Vinyl sales are also on the rise, with a 25.9% increase in physical media revenue for the first half of 2026.

This trend highlights a broader human desire for a simpler, less intrusive form of technology. As we navigate the digital deluge, perhaps a return to simpler, more tactile media is just what the doctor ordered.