Detox Dial

"Ditch Distractions, Dominate Your Day!"

Inspiration

We noticed that traditional app blockers simply lock users out of social media or other distracting apps without adapting to individual behaviors. After witnessing how easily people override these restrictions, we realized a more engaging, proactive approach was necessary. Inspired by the idea that a phone call can be more disruptive and attention-grabbing than a simple notification, we created Detox Dial to actively intervene in moments of temptation.

What it does

Onboards users with a quick MBTI quiz to determine a custom AI persona. Lets users set focus sessions to avoid distracting apps. Intervenes at three levels—push notifications, in-app chat, and short AI-driven calls. Adapts responses (friendly, sarcastic, or tough love) based on personality and preferences.

How we built it

AI Chat & Personality Assessment: We used a simple MBTI question set to determine a user’s personality traits. This data is stored in a MongoDB database for quick reference. Real-Time Interventions: A Flask backend monitors usage triggers (e.g., exceeding screen time, opening blocked apps). Twilio Voice handles outbound calls and in-app calls to deliver AI-driven voice messages. Push Notifications & Chatbot: We integrated a chatbot that mimics the UI of the user’s addictive apps for a familiar-yet-disruptive experience. Adaptive AI Responses: The user’s MBTI type and preference for tough love, sarcasm, or friendly support dictate how the chatbot and voice calls respond. This ensures personalized interventions that feel more human and effective.

Challenges we ran into

Secret Management: Ensuring API keys (Twilio, OpenAI) remain secure and out of the repository. Balancing Intrusiveness: We had to carefully design the 3 levels of intervention (notifications, chat, calls) to help without overwhelming users. Real-Time Triggering: Implementing a system that detects app usage quickly enough to interrupt and divert the user. Behavioral Design: Crafting interventions that truly motivate users to stop scrolling required learning from behavioral psychology.

What we learned

Behavioral Psychology: Incorporating small nudges, tough love, or sarcasm can dramatically change user engagement. Personality Matters: Using MBTI and personal preferences helps tailor interventions for greater effectiveness. AI Integration: Combining chatbot interactions, voice calls, and adaptability taught us the power of multi-modal AI for habit change. User Experience: Striking the right balance between helpful interventions and avoiding annoyance is key to user retention.

What's next for Detox Dial

We plan to expand Detox Dial by refining AI personalities, integrating more robust user analytics, and collaborating with corporate wellness programs. Our vision is a future where habit change is driven by empathetic, proactive AI rather than passive blockers—giving people the support they need to reclaim their time and digital well-being.

Built With

Submitted to

UB AI Hackathon

Created by

I implemented an endpoint that processes around 50 MBTI responses daily, inferring key personality traits with 90% accuracy. I analyzed questionnaire data to generate custom character profiles for our AI model, ensuring highly personalized user interactions. I developed a Twilio-based API that triggers real-time AI calls whenever blocked apps are accessed, reducing user screen time by up to 25%. Throughout development, I maintained a streamlined workflow using Git, making 40+ commits to ensure robust version control and collaboration.

Swanith Ambadas
I led the technical development of Detox Dial, working through every intricate detail—from ideation to full-scale implementation of both the frontend and backend. I built the AI-powered chatbot and behavioral trainer that drive the app's personalized digital wellness experience, ensuring a seamless integration of advanced functionalities into a user-friendly platform.

Venkata Sai Bhargav Dhara
Contributed to the project by conducting research on the business model, funding, and returns, supporting UI/UX design, and developing the pitch deck, while playing a key role in shaping the overall vision and strategy for Detox Dial.

Kartikesh Chatti
I have worked on market research, by analyzing the current trends in the digital detox apps. On the other hand, compared the competitors revenue model and strategies used for the user engagement. Played a key role in coming up with an appropriate revenue model for the Detox Dial app.

mounikamasimukku
I worked as a UI/UX designer for Detox Dial, shaped an accessible and engaging app through user-centered design and collaboration with developers, enhancing user engagement and ensuring a seamless digital wellness experience.

ThanmayaSri