Tokyo's Elderly Learn Smartphone Skills as Japan Shuts Down 3G Networks
In Tokyo's Nerima district, a retired IT programmer teaches smartphone basics to five older adults, mostly in their 70s, who risk analogue isolation after Japan's 3G network shutdown. NTT Docomo ended 3G service at the end of March, affecting around 500,000 people and over 400 phone models. Participants struggle with app overload, security concerns, and the transition from Japan's ubiquitous garakei flip phones, but are motivated to use smartphones for travel planning, messaging, and entertainment.