Gleam: Social Intelligence

I saw this app on a TikTok ad and thought the concept was really unique. It addresses an issue that many struggle with and uses modern culture to the user’s advantage through things like streaks, Home Screen widgets, personalized learning, etc… features we’ve seen work very effectively on other learning apps. It has amazing potential and I’ve yet to see another app like it. However, considering the app’s advertisement platforms, it’s catered towards a younger, tech-fluent audience like myself, a college student who frequently uses AI and other tech. I was quite disappointed when I started my first lesson to see endless, obviously AI-generated art and AI-generated lessons. That is insanely ironic considering it’s an app based on improving social intelligence and interactions between HUMANS. I view AI as a quality tool, when used with the right intention, and I respect the hustle especially with increasing use of AI in startup/tech culture but this is actually quite disheartening to see. In addition to the immediate $50/year subscription forced upon you, I will be uninstalling this app after just a few lessons. I’d love to see some changes in the future but regardless am wishing this project the best.

The way I’d describe my social anxiety— it’s like test anxiety where you are so nervous you forget all of the answers, except it’s every time I have a social interaction outside of immediate family and I completely forget all of the words I know. I have panic attacks leaving the house even just going to the grocery store. I avoid leaving the house altogether for the most part. It’s like I’m stuck and I just can’t get myself out. I tried everything! Counseling, books, alternative therapies, medication, herbs etc. Some helped a little bit, most did not but this app made the most improvement by far! Now I know the mechanics of my social anxiety. Ive stoped avoiding situations that scare me as much. I’ve started to leave my house a lot more often. I’ve started to say more in conversations with strangers— sometimes I don’t even think about it. My brain doesn’t blank out as much when it comes to conversing. I still have a long way to go but I wanted to say thank you to the people who made this app. It’s changed my life.

I came across this app through social media but I stayed for the impact. To start, app design is aesthetic and usage has been smooth. However, the main attraction for me has been the lessons. They’re very effective when I apply it to my personal life. Beyond just broadening my perspective, I’m able to apply lessons into my person life so I can conquer my social anxiety. Although I still have long ways to go, what this app has done so far is amazing!