Public Phones Connect Generations Across the Country

The 'Call a Boomer' and 'Call a Zoomer' phones allow young and old to chat and share advice.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 3:18am

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In Boston and Reno, Nevada, unique public phones are bringing together people from different generations. The 'Call a Boomer' phone in Boston allows passersby to connect with seniors at a Reno senior center, while the 'Call a Zoomer' phone does the reverse. These social experiments aim to bridge the generation gap and foster intergenerational connections.

Why it matters

The public phones are an innovative way to encourage interaction and understanding between younger and older generations, who may not often have the chance to connect. In an increasingly digital world, these analog devices provide a simple but meaningful way for people to have real conversations and learn from each other's experiences.

The details

The phones, set up by startup Matter Neuroscience, are internet-connected and allow users in Boston and Reno to be randomly paired for conversations. During the trial period, users have reported enjoying the chance to chat with strangers, share advice, and even potentially make new friends across the country.

  • The public phones were installed in March 2026.
  • The phones will be available for at least one month, with the possibility of an extension.

The players

Matter Neuroscience

A startup focused on 'advancing human happiness for our collective good', which created the public phone experiment.

Julia Straus

A Boston resident who tried out the 'Call a Boomer' phone during her lunch break.

Marilyn Onkka

A 70-year-old Reno resident who spoke with Straus through the 'Call a Boomer' phone.

April Potts

A 50-year-old Reno resident who offered advice to a reporter through the 'Call a Zoomer' phone.

Brianna Borghi

A reporter who tried out the 'Call a Boomer' phone in Boston.

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What they’re saying

“I think it's fantastic, it's so fun. And great to be able to connect people not just of different generations, but in different places geographically.”

— Julia Straus (nbcboston.com)

“I haven't smiled so much in a long time.”

— Marilyn Onkka, 70-year-old Reno resident (nbcboston.com)

“Smile. Even if you're upset, just smile and say hello or a head nod. Just let people know that they exist and they're acknowledged.”

— April Potts, 50-year-old Reno resident (nbcboston.com)

What’s next

The public phones will remain in place for at least one month, with the possibility of an extension if the participating businesses choose to keep them up.

The takeaway

These public phones demonstrate the power of simple, face-to-face interactions to bridge generational divides. By encouraging strangers to connect and share their perspectives, the experiment highlights how small gestures can foster greater understanding and community between young and old.