Consumers crave the latest technology to feed their need for hypertasking and connection. However, there is also a movement to bring a simpler, more natural, organic and even nostalgic feel to the high tech category, as consumers also desire simplification and the feeling of control that comes from new-stalgia.

iPod Gone Retro
For those who miss the days of the mix tape, Canadian design firm Contexture has come up with a novel case for the iPod Nano – the hollowed out shell of a vintage cassette tape. Each limited edition, one-of-a-kind iPod cradle has a clear plastic window that includes openings for access to the music player's controls, headphone jack and charging dock, and retails for $45 (45iPodCases).

In a similar vein, a British company has just brought out an iPod audio system designed to look like an old school boom box. It is powered by 2 AA batteries, and is made from ecologically-friendly cardboard! (SuckUK)

When Phones Were Phones
You can cradle a phone receiver between your shoulder and ear with ThinkGeek's old-fashioned handset. These reasonably priced ($40) phone receivers use Bluetooth to connect wirelessly to consumers' mobile phone, and will work as long as the charge on the cell phone lasts.