A Ukrainian student has developed a non-standard Android app called ToxicTask, designed to combat procrastination. It’s a task planner that, instead of the usual gentle support and gentle reminders, uses toxic images and aggressive notifications to force the user to meet deadlines on time.
A Ukrainian student has developed a non-standard Android app called ToxicTask, designed to combat procrastination. It’s a task planner that, instead of the usual gentle support and gentle reminders, uses toxic images and aggressive notifications to force the user to meet deadlines on time.
The developer announced the launch of his project on Reddit, where he called on the community to test the application and share critical feedback on its performance. The author used the Kotlin and Jetpack Compose technology stack, Room to store the database on the device, and the AlarmManager tool to configure notifications.
The main feature of the planner is a specific gamification. Instead of the classic accumulation of points, the user starts with a low status and must complete the planned tasks in order to rise to a higher level. If the tasks are not completed, the application sends aggressive reminders. The product interface is made in a minimalist red-black design, and all user data is stored locally on his smartphone without synchronization with the cloud.
The developer notes that his product is aimed at people who are not helped by the classic friendly approach of modern software. If the user needs a «gentle hug», the author advises looking for another tool. Currently, ToxicTask is completely free, does not contain built-in advertising and is already available for download in the Play Store .
A similar approach, but with milder sarcasm and humor, is used by the Duolingo service, where the mascot owl sends passive-aggressive reminders about missed lessons.
