Fahadh Faasil Reveals Why He Uses A Vintage ‘Dumb Phone’: ‘In Two Years, I Want To Be Accessible Only By Email’
Fahadh Faasil uses a vintage Vertu phone to minimise digital distractions and create dedicated time slots for online activities. He aims to eventually be accessible only via email.
A few weeks ago, Malayalam superstar Fahadh Faasil sparked curiosity when he was spotted using a vintage “dumb phone,” a rare Vertu Ascent Ti that originally cost between ₹5–10 lakh when launched nearly two decades ago. Known for his low-profile lifestyle and aversion to digital clutter, the viral image of the actor with this retro luxury phone became a talking point online.
Now, in a recent conversation with The Hollywood Reporter India, Fahadh opened up about his relationship with technology, his commitment to minimalism, and why staying disconnected is a deliberate lifestyle choice.
On Using a “Dumb Phone” and Staying Disciplined
Explaining his switch to a non-smartphone device, Fahadh said: “I mean, I’ve been using a dumb phone for the past year. But it’s not like I’m completely cut off from the internet or anything. I keep telling my wife, ultimately, what I’m trying to do is, in two years, I want to be accessible only by email. I don’t think it’s ever going to happen though."
He continued, "See, whatever’s on your phone is also on your computer or iPad. So for me, it was more about convenience, to have something like this so that there’s a dedicated time to check emails, reply, and all that. I was trying to bring in some discipline, still haven’t managed it, but the idea is to create proper time slots for all these things. Even for waking up on time, you know.”
An influencer, Effin M, had earlier identified the phone as a Vertu Ascent Ti, first released in 2008. Handcrafted from titanium, sapphire crystals, and hand-stitched leather, the phone initially retailed at ₹5.54 lakh. While out of production, it is still available on pre-owned marketplaces for ₹1–1.5 lakh.
Balancing Digital Tools and Work
Despite his resistance to constant digital connectivity, Fahadh clarified that he isn’t against using technology when required.
“It’s very important for me to have a smartphone, especially when I want to quickly check a shot or something. I’m not saying it’s not essential. But now I’ve structured things in a way that I am accessible when needed. There’s a method to all of that. But that has nothing to do with being active on social media.”
Why Social Media Isn’t for Him
Reflecting on his limited online presence, Fahadh shared: “I was there in the early stages, Facebook and all that. And honestly, I wasn’t doing well with it. I didn’t know how to handle it. I didn’t know what to post, how to reply to comments. One thing I was very clear about, though, was that no pictures from my house would go out."
:No personal images. Eventually, I used social media primarily to let people know about the films I was doing. And I’d like to stick to that. For me, social media is just a space to inform people about my work, nothing personal beyond that," he added.
Staying Updated Despite Staying Offline
Interestingly, Fahadh’s detachment from social media doesn’t mean he’s out of touch. In fact, he revealed that one of the most talked-about scenes from his 2024 blockbuster gangster-comedy Aavesham was inspired by a viral reel his team showed him before filming.
“The people around me always ensure I stay updated,” he said, highlighting how he selectively engages with digital trends for creative inspiration without compromising his personal boundaries.
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