The Ultimate Verdict: Star Trek’s Communicator Debate Continues to Amaze in Strange New Worlds
Unveiling the ongoing clash between Star Trek's Strange New Worlds: the timeless debate of flip communicators vs combadges Discover why the 24th century still cherishes the 23rd-century technology
Summary
The 7th episode of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 2, titled "Those Old Scientists," delves into the ongoing discussion surrounding the choice between the communicator flip-phone from the 23rd century and the combadge from the 24th century.The combadge provides convenience and additional features such as a universal translator, making it highly practical in the fast-paced environments of Starfleet. Starfleet officers in the 24th century value 23rd-century technology for the sake of nostalgia, much like how individuals in the present day appreciate vintage technology.
The communicator or combadge is one of the most useful pieces of technology in the Star Trek universe. Star Trek: Strange New Worlds' crossover with Star Trek: Lower Decks reignited the debate on which version of this iconic device is superior. Strange New Worlds follows the adventures of Captain Christopher Pike and his crew on the USS Enterprise, taking place approximately 120 years before Lower Decks in the Star Trek timeline. The technology of the 24th century has undoubtedly seen numerous advancements compared to the 23rd-century gear, but the question remains: is it truly better?
In episode 7 of Strange New Worlds' second season, titled "Those Old Scientists," Ensigns Brad Boimler and Beckett Mariner from Star Trek: Lower Decks journey back in time and encounter Captain Pike and his Enterprise crew. Although they strive to avoid disrupting the timeline, Boimler, in particular, cannot contain his excitement at meeting his heroes and witnessing firsthand the 23rd-century technology. Even Pike himself becomes somewhat defensive when it comes to the flip-phone-like communicator of the 23rd century.
Strange New Worlds Renews Star Trek’s Communicator Vs. Combadge Debate
In nearly every Star Trek series, there has been an occurrence of time-travel, with characters often commenting on the technology of the time period they visit. In "Those Old Scientists," Captain Pike and Number One (Rebecca Romijn) examine Boimler's combadge and express their preference for flip-phone communicators. However, despite its satisfaction in usage, the flip-phone version isn't the most practical choice. In situations where Starfleet officers face danger, they may struggle to free a hand to open and access their communicator.
To facilitate quick communication between Star Trek officers, the combadge serves as a more convenient alternative. By simply tapping their badge, officers can swiftly reach out to another officer, eliminating the need for opening a communicator. Moreover, the combadge, attached to their uniform, reduces the amount of technology that officers need to carry. In addition to communication, the 24th-century combadges had further functionalities like serving as a universal translator and identification tool. As much as the old-school communicators may evoke nostalgia and enjoyment, the updated combadge provides a more convenient means for officers to communicate in the fast-paced environment of Starfleet.
Why Star Trek’s 24th Century Still Likes 23rd-Century Tech
Ensign Boimler was not the first Starfleet officer from the future to express admiration for outdated technology. In the episode "Trials and Tribble-ations" of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Jadzia Dax appreciates the classic design of the 23rd-century tricorder. Similarly, Boimler excitedly requests to hold Dr. M'Benga's tricorder, stating that no improvements have been made on it. Despite acknowledging the advancements in technology, Boimler clearly values the old-school designs of the 23rd century, even with the potential risk of the original tricorder exploding.
Starfleet officers in the 24th century likely appreciate 23rd-century technology for the same reasons that people today appreciate past technology. Whether or not individuals grew up with the older version, there is a sense of nostalgia associated with it. Just as people today still enjoy typewriters, record players, and flip-phones, Starfleet officers in the 24th century have an affinity for the 23rd-century communicators and tricorders. In the episode "Those Old Scientists" of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, the debate between communicators and combadges is reignited, and the tradition of future Starfleet officers geeking out over past technology continues.
Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season 2 streams Thursdays on Paramount+.
