Indirect Comptetitors

I looked at some products that could compete with mine, but that weren't in the exact same niche market. The main market I looked at during this stage was habit tracking apps, as they held the most similar core function to SoberRoad and other similar products. I’m looking at these based on the assumption that a typical user may turn to a habit tracker app if none of the current sobriety apps have worked for them.

Headspace

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Price: Free W/premium memberships

Available: IOS, Android

Headspace is mediation and mind-fullness app. It utilises science backed relaxation and meditation methods to help its users unwind. Headspace has a large audience and I would consider it my biggest opponent in terms of indirect competitors. Many recovering addicts are advised to take up meditation to help deal with some of the side effects of going sober such as depression, anxiety and depression.

Headspace is widely known for its brand identity. It’s us of warm colours and illustrations have made them easily recognisable. The colours also help to make the app feel inviting and non-judgemental.

Streaks

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Price: 4.49

Available: IOS

Streaks is a habit tracker App that I came across frequently while searching online. It is a paid habit tracker with very high ratings on the App Store. The app allows users to create a number of custom habit trackers based on their on unique needs. It uses Bold colours and iconography to build a unique brand identity. The simple UI helps user navigate he app easily, avoiding frustration. These features are some just of the main reasons the app has been so well received. The app also can used in conjunction with apple fitness apps which help with the apps ease of use.

Looking at these competitors helped me realise a few things. The brand would serve an important role in helping the user to make a connection with the app. The UI/UX should also prioritise a clean, simplistic UI so as to help the user navigate the app with ease.

Habitshare

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Price: Free

Available: IOS, Android

Habitshare is unique in the fact that it uses social features as one of its core functions. The app allows you to share and track your habits along with friends. This idea of having people involved in your journey has been tried and tested before. Accountability is a strong tactic for keeping people on track with progress and helps motivate them to stick to their goals. This is a method used in alcohol recovery in the form of an accountability partner. This connection made me start to think that my app could use some social features as a way to reinforce accountability. Although my further research into competitors has made me realise that adding thee function will have to be done with extra care. I go over this in more detail in the I AM SOBER analysis below.