The 'Die With Me' app is a chat room only available when the user's phone has critically low battery. The app restricts users from accessing it until the battery percentage of their mobile device is five percent or below. Die With Me was designed by media artist and freelance concept provider Dries Depoorter. Depoorter got the idea to create this app simply because he wanted to do something positive with a low battery, and while the chat room function was not the first idea, Depoorter now loves the concept.
Die With Me was first presented to audiences at the International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam's annual DocLab Interactive Conference and a beta version was tested at the same time. While the current version serves as an anonymous toy, Depoorter explained that the original idea behind the app was to be a vehicle for romantic connection. This version of the app would use location-based software to show users with dying batteries, and suggested the idea that users should then meet for a live conversation.
Battery Life-Restricted Chatrooms
The 'Die With Me' App Can Only Be Used When Batteries are Low
Trend Themes
1. Low-battery Exclusive Apps - Develop apps that can only be accessed or used during critical low battery situations to encourage alternative activities.
2. Intentional Technological Limitations - Create apps that intentionally limit usage or access, providing users a unique experience and a reason to disconnect and engage in other activities.
3. Scarcity-based Digital Tools - Develop digital tools that limit access or use based on the availability of a limited resource, creating a more intentional, mindful and unique user engagement.
Industry Implications
1. Social Media - Social media platforms can potentially add low-battery exclusive features or designs that promote alternative ways to engage with users, instead of constantly promoting high usage.
2. Mobile Apps - Mobile app developers can create apps with unique access limited by certain technical or physical constraints, encouraging users to find alternative means of entertainment.
3. Dating Apps - By creating location-based dating apps intended for use only during low battery situations, users could find more meaningful, face-to-face interactions while waiting for their device to recharge.