Launched StepUp – the retro looking pedometer mobile app

With millions of pedometer apps available, standing out required a fresh and compelling approach. Our goal was to create StepUp, an app that combined playful retro aesthetics, personalized customization, and a unique incentive to unlock addictive apps (like Instagram) only after achieving daily step goals.

I designed the app and collaborated closely with a friend who handled development. Together, we fastly scaled an initial idea into a fully realized app experience.

Despite the crowded market, most step-tracking apps felt generic, visually uninspired and indistinguishable. Users wanted more than functionality, they wanted engaging experiences and clear motivation to achieve health goals.

By introducing retro design and gamified incentives, StepUp immediately differentiated itself. This design decision resonated strongly with users, validated by overwhelmingly positive feedback during our Product Hunt launch.

The idea began simply: a textual UI combined with nostalgic, pixelated fonts. Our agile workflow allowed us to quickly evolve this simple concept into a detailed, vibrant retro-themed interface. Iterative cycles focused on enhancing visual details, refining interactions, and ensuring every element, from taps to transitions, felt genuinely retro and delightfully nostalgic.

Started as a simple concept that I did for fun, but it got traction on X/Twitter.

StepUp’s interface employs carefully crafted pixelated typography, neon glows, and vibrant color palettes. Every interaction, from button taps to progress animations, is thoughtfully detailed to evoke nostalgia.

Users personalize their experience by selecting different color schemes, and visual effects, such as neon glow highlights, were helping to bring the right feeling, creating emotional attachment and sustained engagement. And also driving the revenue, since color schemes were at additiona cost.

Home Screen widgest

Launching on Product Hunt generated tremendous visibility, quickly becoming the #4 Product of the Day. This positive reception significantly boosted awareness and downloads, affirming the strength of our design approach.
‍
Operating in a small team enabled rapid iteration and constant innovation, key factors in delivering a standout product quickly.

The overwhelmingly positive response underscored the importance of taking bold creative risks to differentiate within saturated markets.

Credits:

François Boulais