HoldX

Short Explanation

HoldX is a science-backed mobile app developed to help users break free from harmful digital habits—particularly porn addiction—by promoting self-control, daily mindfulness, and community accountability. It offers habit streak tracking, meditation, a supportive in-app community, and a browser extension to block adult content at the source.

Project Goals

The core objectives of HoldX were:

To provide an effective support system for individuals battling porn addiction through structured tools and a healthy community.
To encourage user commitment via streak tracking, achievements, and pledge systems.
To enable long-term behavior change through features like guided meditation, relapse prevention, and breathing exercises.
To integrate content-blocking functionality with a browser extension for deeper habit control.

Tech Stack Used

Frontend Development: Flutter & Dart
Backend: Supabase, Custom APIs
Analytics & Error Tracking: Singular (for analytics), Sentry (for bug reporting)
AI Features: OpenAI for AI Chat
Platform: iOS & Android (cross-platform)

Features

Streak Tracker & Achievement System

Users can track their progress and maintain streaks to stay motivated. Visual milestones and badges are unlocked with progress, fostering a sense of accomplishment.

Breathing Exercises & Guided Meditation

To calm the mind and regain control in moments of weakness, HoldX offers guided breathing exercises and audio meditations to support emotional regulation.

Content Blocking & Relapse Warning

A companion browser extension blocks adult content, while the app delivers smart notifications and warning prompts to help prevent relapses.

AI Chat Support & Pledge System

Users can interact with an AI coach for motivation, daily check-ins, and relapse recovery tips. The pledge system helps reinforce user commitment through self-accountability.

Users can share their journey, encourage others, and join group challenges. Moderation tools ensure a safe and positive environment.

Profile Customization & Daily Notifications

Users can personalize their journey, set reminders, and get motivational nudges each day to stay on track.

Referral System and In-App Purchases

Users can unlock premium features through in-app purchases or gain free access by using a referral code system.

The Problems and How I Deal With It

HoldX was built as a solo project from the ground up for both iOS and Android platforms. One of the biggest challenges was integrating multiple engagement features (like AI chat, browser blocking, and community tools) without compromising app performance. Managing state efficiently, especially across streaks, chat, and notifications, pushed me to refine my architecture skills. Through consistent iteration, Sentry monitoring, and community feedback, I fine-tuned the user experience to be empowering and non-judgmental.

Lessons Learned

Building HoldX from scratch taught me what it means to create something that truly matters. Through the development of HoldX, I deepened my expertise in mobile architecture and scalable state management, ensuring the app remained responsive and efficient across both iOS and Android platforms. I navigated the full deployment cycle, from testing to publishing on the App Store and Play Store, while integrating robust analytics and error tracking using Singular and Sentry. I also explored user retention strategies grounded in behavioral psychology to foster habit change and long-term engagement. Most importantly, I learned how to build a secure and empathetic digital space that respects user privacy and supports individuals navigating sensitive personal challenges.