MeBeMe’s new ‘interrupter’ app helps you become your best self instead of doomscrolling 

TechCrunch ·

MeBeMe is a newly launched smartphone app designed to interrupt compulsive scrolling by nudging users towards real-world habits rather than simply blocking their phone access. Instead of locking people out of distracting apps, it prompts them with small "missions" tied to an identity they wish to embody, aiming to gently redirect attention away from social media towards more meaningful activity. The app reflects a wider trend of tools aimed at tackling social media addiction, distinguishing itself through encouragement rather than restriction.

Users begin by selecting an identity, such as "lifelong learner" or "classics reader", from more than 75 options spanning categories including Mind, Body, relationships and home life. MeBeMe then sends occasional notifications suggesting relevant tasks, such as watching a short educational video or attending a book club, and users can adopt multiple identities and control notification frequency. Created by Eric Wolfram, who first built it for his son, the app launched last Wednesday, is free with no ads or subscriptions, requires no account, and keeps all data stored locally on the device for privacy. It is currently available on iOS, with an Android version planned.

In short

  • MeBeMe app nudges users towards habits instead of blocking phones
  • Offers 75+ identities like "athlete" or "lifelong learner" with small tasks
  • Free, no ads, privacy-focused; iOS now, Android coming soon

Explained simply

MeBeMe is a smartphone app designed to interrupt excessive social media scrolling. Unlike apps that simply lock you out of distracting services, MeBeMe nudges users towards real-world activities they might find more fulfilling.

The app asks users to select an identity they wish to embody from over 75 options, such as "lifelong learner" or "classics reader". It then sends occasional notifications suggesting small tasks aligned with that identity—such as watching an educational video or attending a book club—and users can adopt multiple identities and adjust notification frequency to suit them.

MeBeMe reflects a wider trend of tools aimed at tackling social media addiction, but distinguishes itself through encouragement rather than restriction. Created by Eric Wolfram for his son, the app is free with no advertisements or subscriptions, and stores all data locally on the device. It is currently available on iOS, with an Android version planned.

Software Technology

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