**Updated to one star after the developer’s response. I recommend not purchasing this app. Once they have your money, you’re not getting it back if you’re unhappy or feel scammed.** I purchased this app through Kickstarter because it advertised a clean, minimal interface—especially appealing since most App Store alternatives were showing the lined design introduced with the Liquid Glass update. My first disappointment was learning the developers knew the app would not look like what was advertised, but they promoted it that way anyway.The app stays open on your phone and relies on shortcuts to open other apps, which are often slow and visibly run in the background, creating friction. There is no customization beyond what apps you want to shortcut to (you can’t even change the name of the shortcuts), yet the price is the same as comparable apps in the App Store that do have these features. I feel stupid for buying it. I also disabled the time-limits feature because it’s impractical if you use your phone for work. Many apps—like web browsers—serve both personal and professional purposes, and the limits don’t account for work day vs personal time.Functionally, the app adds unnecessary steps. For example, opening Messages through the app’s shortcut brings up a blank “new message” screen instead of showing existing conversations, which means extra work every time. I no longer use the shortcut screens at all and instead rely on app search to find what I need. I will eventually remove this app from my phone. Overall, the app is frustrating and unenjoyable to use. While the added friction might slightly discourage phone use, it hasn’t reduced my screen time in any meaningful way—only made everyday tasks slower and more annoying. I regret spending money on this app.
Hi, Thank you for reaching out to us. While we understand your reservations we would like to help you out in the best way possible. Since the app is constantly being updated we are trying to keep the users as updated as possible. Therefore, the graphics were showing the most used iOS version at that time, namely being the iOS version 18. Please head over to the App Store if you still haven't updated the minimalist phone app to the latest version which also includes the Light Theme. As a solution to the Liquid Glass update by iOS, we have released the Light Theme which would help eliminate the outlines around your widgets. As for the renaming, it is a useful feature and we are planning on adding it later this year. Regarding the shortcut app popping up, some apps can be opened directly while others require opening via the shortcut app. That's an iOS limitation that we cannot change on our end. However, we have taken your feedback into consideration. Feel free to let us know if you have any further suggestions and we would love to hear from you at hello@care.minimalistphone.com.From our end, we delivered the app as described in the campaign as well as how it was showcased in the preview images - we are continuing on making it better thanks to your feedback.Best regards,Your minimalist phone team!