WeWard Launches Walking Mode to Lock Social Apps Until 3,000 Steps
Updated
Updated · Business Insider · Jul 10
WeWard Launches Walking Mode to Lock Social Apps Until 3,000 Steps
3 articles · Updated · Business Insider · Jul 10
Summary
WeWard’s new “Walking Mode” blocks apps such as TikTok and Instagram until users hit a customizable step target, with 3,000 steps offered as one example.
The feature was built in 2 months by head of growth Tyler Chandler using AI-assisted coding after he identified a personal screen-time pain point and the company sought to show one employee could ship a complex tool end-to-end.
Paris-based WeWard said the tool extends its existing walking-rewards model, which gives users “Wards” redeemable for cash, gift cards or donations and uses leaderboards to encourage activity.
The company says it has more than 30 million users in 29 countries, including 4 million in the US, and that its platform lifts users’ walking time by nearly 25% on average.
CEO Yves Benchimol said the goal is to curb sedentary social-media habits across age groups by making screen time a reward for physical activity rather than the default.