A new productivity app called Three Cells: Your Life System has launched on the iOS App Store, combining journaling, habit tracking, and task management into a single platform. Created by solo developer Maghfoor, the app promises to be the only productivity system you'll actually use every day. However, the launch has sparked significant debate in the tech community over its pricing model and user experience decisions.
Controversial Pricing Structure Draws Criticism
The app's pricing strategy has become a major point of contention among users. Three Cells offers two payment options: a weekly subscription at $2.99 USD or a lifetime purchase for $29.99 USD. This pricing structure has raised eyebrows, with many users questioning the logic behind charging $155.48 USD annually for a subscription while offering lifetime access for just $29.99 USD.
Community members have expressed concern that this pricing model appears designed to push users toward the expensive lifetime option, particularly given that many productivity apps see low long-term retention rates. The weekly subscription model has been criticized as part of a broader trend of scammy pricing in consumer apps that target users who may not stick with their productivity goals.
Lack of Price Transparency Creates Trust Issues
Another significant issue highlighted by users is the complete absence of pricing information on the app's website and marketing materials. Users must download the app and go through the onboarding process before discovering the cost, which many view as a deceptive practice.
Nothing on the website or in the App Store — you have to download the app to find out how much it will cost you.
This lack of transparency has damaged user trust from the outset, with several community members abandoning the app before trying it due to concerns about hidden costs and unclear pricing practices.
Lengthy Onboarding Process Frustrates Users
The app's onboarding experience has also drawn criticism for being overly complex and time-consuming. Users report having to complete a 12-page questionnaire before being able to use the app's core features. Many have expressed frustration with this approach, arguing that productivity apps should allow immediate use rather than forcing users through extensive setup processes.
The developer has acknowledged this feedback and indicated plans to implement a skip option for users who understand the app's value proposition without needing the full onboarding experience.
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| Daily summary interface of Three Cells showing completed habits and reflections |
Technical Issues and Missing Features
Early users have identified several technical problems, including keyboard interface issues that block navigation buttons and poor support for larger font sizes, which creates accessibility concerns. The app also lacks dark mode support, a feature many users expect in modern mobile applications.
Additionally, the app is currently iOS-only, with numerous Android users expressing interest but no clear timeline for cross-platform availability.
Developer Response and Future Plans
Developer Maghfoor has been actively responding to community feedback, acknowledging many of the raised concerns and promising improvements. The developer has committed to adding account deletion options, fixing accessibility issues, and considering changes to the pricing and trial structure.
The app uses Convex for backend services and stores data on a VPS-hosted system. The developer has indicated plans to add data export functionality and potential integrations with fitness tracking services like Strava in the future.
Despite the criticism, some users have praised the app's clean design and unified approach to productivity tracking. However, the community response suggests that addressing the pricing transparency and onboarding issues will be crucial for the app's long-term success in the competitive productivity app market.
Reference: Make the most of your days
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| Clean and organized task management interface showcasing app features |