Title: Hi HN,<p>It&#x27;s super hard to quit addicting apps. Existing solutions are non-binding, and therefore, require constant self-discipline and vigilance to be effective. Which is ironic, considering the problem we are trying to solve, is a lack of self-discipline.<p>There exists a physical solution to this problem, in the form of a time-locked safe[1]. It’s effective for reducing app usage, but it&#x27;s cumbersome and inconvenient.<p>Fundamentally, what these lock-boxes do is impose a real-world cost on breaking your commitment. It’s not impossible to break your commitment, but it would require destroying the lock-box, and that incurs a cost.<p>I created a digital version of this, as an app (Android-only). Commitment’s are backed with cash deposits, and the phone API’s are used to detect violations and enforce compliance. No self-reporting required. And it even works if the monitoring app is uninstalled, or its background service disabled.<p>An example commitment: Stop using Tinder, for the next week, or forfeit $20 to the Red Cross charity.<p>The solution also generalizes to other types of commitments:<p><pre><code>  - Commit to using an app more (e.g. meditation)
  - Commit to visiting a location (e.g. gym)
  - Commit to making a phone call (e.g. mom)
</code></pre>
It’s currently only available for Android, but I&#x27;m considering doing an IOS version as well. Hope you like it, and please share any feedback you might have in the comments!<p>[1]: <a href="https:&#x2F;&#x2F;www.thekitchensafe.com" rel="nofollow">https:&#x2F;&#x2F;www.thekitchensafe.com</a>
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