Introducing Lately

Lately, a recently launched application on the App Store, aims to support individuals with ADHD in better managing their time and improving punctuality. By providing reminders and a unique reward system, Lately seeks to address common challenges faced by those dealing with time management issues.

Features of Lately

• Reminders that alert users 30, 10, and 5 minutes prior to departure.
• Live Activities on both iPhone and Apple Watch showing a countdown to leave.

Gamified Reward System

The app employs a point system structured across four levels of difficulty—Goldfish, Coffee, Grown Up, and Yoda. Points are awarded based on punctuality:

• Goldfish: 3 points for early, 2 for on-time, and 0 for late.
• Yoda: A more challenging level that deducts points for lateness.

As users accumulate points, they unlock virtual achievement badges within the app, fostering a sense of accomplishment and progression.

The Developer’s Vision

Created by indie developer Erik MacInnis, Lately was designed to tackle the prevalent issues surrounding time blindness and time estimation that often hinder individuals with ADHD. MacInnis stated, “I’ve always been the ‘late one’ in my friend group. For many of us, our toughest challenges to leaving on time are time blindness and poor time estimation.”

He emphasized that Lately supports users in overcoming these obstacles while providing motivational rewards.

Comparison with Other Apps

While there are other applications geared toward similar goals, such as the Android app Time to Leave, MacInnis critiques them for being outdated. Existing ADHD apps often focus more on task management, such as Structured and TickTick, rather than addressing commuting-related time blindness.

During testing, Lately proved useful, although it currently offers limited options for those using public transportation or biking in urban settings, focusing instead on driving and walking.

The Role of Rewards in Self-Discipline

ADHD specialists frequently recommend reward systems to enhance self-discipline among individuals with the condition. Other gamified applications, such as Finch, have shown success by allowing users to earn points through completing daily activities and self-care tasks.

Future Developments

Looking ahead, MacInnis has plans to incorporate a social feature allowing users to notify friends when they leave, when they are five minutes away, and upon arrival. An Android version is also under development.

Pricing and Availability

Lately is available for free, with an optional premium subscription priced at $3 per month or $10 annually. The premium version offers features like customized difficulty levels and the ability to schedule recurring trips.