The Application That Halts Social Media Access Until You Begin Working


A new application is embarking on an unconventional journey: to assist individuals in reducing the time they spend on apps. The developers of the iOS application **Steppin** acknowledge that in our technology-saturated environment, it may require technology itself to aid people in overcoming their tech routines.

**Steppin** was created by Paul English, who is the co-founder of the travel service Kayak, which was purchased by Priceline in 2012 for $1.8 billion. Officially released on the [App Store](https://apps.apple.com/pk/app/steppin/id6737981423) this past Tuesday, the app sports the slogan “Escape the Scroll.” Its main purpose is to restrict access to applications and websites—especially social media—to users until they accomplish a self-defined number of steps. The concept for Steppin reportedly occurred to English during a family vacation in Spain, where he observed his relatives fixated on their phones, scrolling through feeds instead of appreciating the museums and cathedrals surrounding them.

### How It Works
Steppin permits users to determine the number of steps they need to take to gain specific increments of screen time. For example, a user could configure it so that 1,000 steps grant them one minute of TikTok or five minutes of Instagram. English sees the app as a means to enhance both mental and physical wellness for users of all demographics.

The app’s blocking features extend beyond just social media. It can also limit access to video games and streaming services such as Netflix. In the future, Steppin intends to broaden its capabilities, enabling users to integrate other physical activities, like yoga or Pilates, to earn additional screen time.

### Availability and Pricing
Currently, Steppin is accessible on iOS and will soon be available on Android. While the app is free for the time being, the developers aim to implement a subscription model in the near future, likely costing around $20 per month.

Steppin introduces an innovative method for addressing screen addiction, merging technology with physical activity to promote healthier lifestyles. Whether for children, adults, or families, the app aspires to facilitate the process of “escaping the scroll” a bit more effortlessly.