9 “Dumb” Devices Making a Genius Comeback in 2025

9. Slide Projectors: Illuminating the Past

Slide projectors, once a staple of family gatherings and educational presentations, have been revived by enthusiasts seeking a tactile and communal way to share images. In 2025, these devices offer a nostalgic alternative to digital slideshows, allowing users to physically handle slides and enjoy the warm glow of projected images. This resurgence is driven by a desire to create shared experiences and a sense of occasion around viewing photos. The tactile process of loading slides and the anticipation of each image appearing on the screen evoke a sense of wonder and nostalgia that digital formats often lack.