smartph

The revolutionary modern device.

I still find it hard to believe that the first iPhone that ushered in a new digital era was released over a decade ago. I still remember being absolutely blown away by the fluidity of my first iPod Touch (that my mother smashed since I played it too much, oops). Fast forward to now, and smartphones are in the hands of everyone, even my 12-year-old little sister.

Their benefits are obvious: instant connection to all your friends and family, photos and videos that can be taken anywhere, your all-in-one device to be up to speed on news, entertainment, and more. Yet more and more conversation is being steered around the dangers of our uninhibited use. Nearly all its criticisms stem from its strengths: social media has depressed happiness, swayed elections, and radicalized extremism. Ubiquitous photography and videography has drawn away some of the arts’ appeal. Being always on is being addicted.

It’s hard to quantify and understand these effects. It’s been a little over 10 years, but at the same time, it’s only been 10 years. Our behavioral patterns and expectations have completely changed, but who can deny that smartphones have enabled many countries and people around the world to experience technology that conveniences the inconvenient?

It’s a polarizing discussion after all. Every drawback yields an advantage, and every new advantage births another drawback. Can any one of us even condemn what’s happening in these photos?