Yale Students Launch Charity-Linked App to Curb Screen Time

Three students from Yale University have developed an innovative app named Scroll Toll, designed to help users minimize their screen time while also encouraging charitable donations. Founded in November 2023 by Asher Barondes (class of 2026), Benjamin Siegel (class of 2029), and Chase Reynders (class of 2026), the app allows individuals to set limits on their application usage. If users exceed these limits, they are prompted to donate to one of the app’s partnered charities, creating a unique financial incentive to reduce screen time.

Barondes, who oversees the app’s interface and marketing, explained the rationale behind Scroll Toll: “We wanted to add more friction to really get people off their phones. We recognized that one way to do so is by having some money tied to it. But at least if you did exceed your screen time limit, you would be contributing to some social good.”

Upon downloading the app, users can select which applications to limit and specify an amount they are willing to donate each time they surpass their set limit. For instance, a user might choose to donate $0.25 for every additional five minutes spent on Instagram. The app also offers users the option to enable automatic donations or to donate manually, allowing for flexibility.

Siegel compared the app’s behavior modification mechanism to congestion pricing in urban settings, emphasizing the importance of balancing financial implications with screen time. He noted, “The only way to actually change behavior is if people have this balance they have to find between money and time.”

From Idea to App: The Journey of Scroll Toll

Siegel and Barondes were initially working on similar concepts for screen-time management when they connected through mutual friends. Their collaboration soon included Reynders, forming a trio dedicated to creating a practical solution to the pervasive issue of excessive smartphone use.

Siegel’s gap year experience greatly influenced his approach to screen time. During that time, he and friends created an Instagram account, @boys.with.the.bus, which gained two million followers by showcasing adventures and vehicle constructions. Reflecting on the statistics of his posts, Siegel realized the staggering time spent by viewers on social media, influencing his desire to help others achieve healthier digital habits.

Since launching, Scroll Toll reported promising results among its initial users. Barondes noted that even with just 65 users in November, the app achieved an average screen time reduction of 20 to 30 percent. As of January 2024, the user base has expanded to 130 individuals. The team has incorporated feedback to enhance user experience, including a feature that provides weekly reports on screen usage.

Evan Daneker, a user from the class of 2026, shared his positive experience with the app, stating that it encourages gradual reduction of screen time without the harshness of completely blocking access. “I sort of appreciated that Scroll Toll was a little more permissive but still incentivized you to gradually reduce your screen time usage to a healthier amount,” he commented.

Future Developments and Charitable Partnerships

The founders are actively exploring ways to strengthen their partnerships with charities and are planning monthly challenges to raise awareness for specific causes, such as breast cancer during Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October.

While they acknowledge that not all users may be interested in a financial incentive to limit screen time, they remain optimistic about finding an audience. Reynders stated, “At the end of the day, you can always delete the app. While we would love them to stick with it, we’re really trying to be intentional about our audience. We know this isn’t for everybody, but we also believe the people it is for, it really is for.”

With a focus on fostering healthier relationships with technology and contributing to social good, Scroll Toll is poised to make a significant impact in the realm of digital wellness.