Show HN: App that asks ‘why?’ every time you unlock your phone (play.google.com)

Article summary

An app has been developed that asks 'why?' every time the user unlocks their phone, aiming to help users use their phone less. The app has a simple functionality but offers in-app purchases for additional features. The app's developer has made an effort to keep the app free from ads and data collection. The app's purpose is to encourage mindful phone usage.

Main themes

• Phone usage habits
• App monetization
• Developer compensation
• Digital minimalism
• App development
• User experience

What commenters say

• The app's in-app purchases are seen as unnecessary by some, who believe that simple apps should not be monetized.
• Developers have the right to charge for their work and should be compensated for their time and effort.
• Some argue that not everything needs to be built with profit in mind, and that open-source or free alternatives can be valuable.
• The presence of ads and in-app purchases can be seen as a negative aspect of the app ecosystem, and some users actively avoid them.
• Alternative models, such as a universal basic income, could allow developers to create and share apps without needing to monetize them.
• The decision to monetize an app should be left to the developer, and users should respect their choice.
• Some users prefer to pay a small upfront fee for an app rather than seeing in-app purchases or ads.
• The app's functionality could be replicated by simply setting an image as the lock screen background, but the app's interactive features and history tracking add value.