Intentional Smartphone Use
ReMindful
Write the reason before opening the app.
ReMindful is an iOS app that helps reduce unconscious smartphone use by asking users what they are opening a distracting app for. Rather than simply blocking apps, it inserts a small reflection step before use.
Background
People often open SNS or video apps without a clear purpose. ReMindful creates a small pause at that moment and asks users to turn vague impulse into a concrete reason.
Approach
Before the target app opens, users enter what they are going to use and what they are going to do. If the purpose is clear, the app can be unlocked briefly; if not, the user can close it without continuing.
Features
- Reason Prompt before opening selected apps.
- Purpose Builder with “what” and “what to do” inputs.
- Intentional Unlock for short, purpose-based use.
- Close Without Purpose when the user realizes there is no clear reason.
- Usage Awareness through reflection instead of simple blocking.
Technical Work
- Built the main UI, restriction screen, reason input flow, and settings with SwiftUI.
- Designed a restriction and unlock flow using Screen Time related frameworks.
- Improved iPad compatibility and handled App Store review feedback.
- Refined the product concept from “blocking apps” to “making the reason visible.”
View ReMindful on the App Store.
Open App Store