TimeTrek

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displaying time saved on a video

Inspiration

Kids today are often glued to screens, especially with endless YouTube scrolling. We wanted to create a solution that helps reduce mindless screen time while still allowing kids to engage with content in a meaningful way. Inspired by the balance between progress and preservation, we designed an app that encourages healthier digital habits without being intrusive.

What it does

TimeTrek filters YouTube videos and provides AI-generated summaries instead of allowing unrestricted scrolling. This helps kids absorb key information quickly while reducing excessive screen exposure. The app also includes a leaderboard and rewards system to incentivize mindful screen use.

How we built it

We used Python, Streamlit, and Google Gemini Pro to power the video summarization feature, leveraging VideoBrief for transcript analysis. The front end was built with React, ensuring a smooth user experience. Our backend processes user interactions and tracks progress for gamification.

Challenges we ran into

Fine-tuning the AI summarization to be concise yet engaging for kids. Designing a reward system that motivates children without feeling like a restriction. Ensuring the app remains helpful and unobtrusive, rather than overly controlling.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

Successfully integrating AI-powered video summarization with a user-friendly interface. Creating a functional prototype within the limited hackathon time frame. Designing an experience that balances technology’s benefits while reducing its downsides.

What we learned

The importance of designing tech that respects human attention and fosters better habits. How to optimize AI-generated summaries for younger audiences. Balancing progress with preservation when building responsible technology.

What's next for TimeTrek

Refining AI summaries to be more interactive and engaging for kids. Expanding the reward system with more personalized incentives. Introducing parental controls for additional customization. Exploring integration with other platforms to promote mindful tech use beyond YouTube.