WeWard, an app that offers users rewards for recording their steps, is launching a feature called “Walk Mode” that allows users to restrict the use of their chosen apps until they reach a certain number of steps. The feature is supposed to motivate people to walk while also helping them reduce their screen time, if
WeWard, an app that offers users rewards for recording their steps, is launching a feature called “Walk Mode” that allows users to restrict the use of their chosen apps until they reach a certain number of steps. The feature is supposed to motivate people to walk while also helping them reduce their screen time, if that’s something they’re looking to do.
If a user wants to scroll less on TikTok or Instagram while still making sure they have time for a daily walk, they could restrict access to the apps until they walk 3,000 steps, for example. Step goals and blocked apps are customizable.
Until now, WeWard encouraged users to go for a walk by giving them “Wards,” an in-app currency that can be redeemed for cash, gift cards or donations. There’s also a gamified leaderboard feature, so you can engage in some gentle competition with your friends. But adding screen time reduction features makes sense for the app, as many users look for new ways to limit unnecessary phone and social media use.

With funding from tennis star and angel investor Venus Williams, the France-based app says it has 30 million users in 29 countries, including 4 million American users. The platform also says that it has been shown to increase walking time by almost 25%.
“We believe the next generation of products should be designed to create healthier behaviors in the real world, not simply grab more attention,” WeWard co-founder Yves Benchimol told TechCrunch. “Walking Mode is our contribution to that vision and we hope it inspires a broader conversation about conscious design and how the industry defines success.”
WeWard says users spend only a few minutes a day on the app, which it sees as a positive statistic since the app doesn’t try to monopolize attention.
While some rewards apps fund their payouts by collecting and selling user data to third parties, WeWard says it does not engage in these practices. Instead, you make money from in-app purchases, affiliate marketing, premium subscriptions, and advertising.
When you buy through links in our articles, we may earn a small commission. This does not affect our editorial independence.
Check back often for more exciting news!













