IQ Masters - Brain Training

What it does

IQ Masters is a mobile app designed to improve cognitive skills through a collection of games and tests. It provides users with a personalized brain training plan based on their stated goals, which can range from improving memory to managing ADHD symptoms. The app features a variety of puzzles and assessments, tracks user progress over time, and uses gamification elements like streaks to encourage consistent engagement.

Where it shines

The app's strength lies in its structured and motivating user journey. The onboarding process does an excellent job of building value before monetization by using a detailed quiz (00:18) to create a personalized plan. This makes the subsequent subscription feel earned. Another highlight is the clear and immediate guidance post-subscription. Instead of leaving the user to explore, the app directs them to complete three games (starting at 01:31), ensuring they experience the core value right away. Finally, the comprehensive progress dashboard (07:58) provides detailed feedback broken down by skill, which helps users feel a tangible sense of improvement.

UX highlights

Themed Loading: The 'Building your plan' animation (00:54) uses a filling brain icon, turning a standard loading screen into a value-reinforcing moment.
Interactive Goal Setting: After the first session, the app asks users to commit to a streak goal (03:21), making engagement an active choice rather than a passive metric.
Clear Game Tutorials: Each game includes a concise, animated tutorial (e.g., 01:45) that demonstrates the mechanics before the user begins, reducing initial friction.
Gamified Progress: The app uses progress bars, levels, and scores extensively to provide constant feedback and a sense of accomplishment after each game (02:14).
Mascot Introduction: A friendly penguin mascot named 'Qimo' is introduced (03:47) to add personality and guide the user, making the experience more approachable.
Structured Content: The app neatly organizes its games and tests into categories like Logic, Memory, and Focus (05:08), allowing users to easily find activities that match their goals.

Monetization & growth

Monetization is centered around a soft paywall presented at the end of the onboarding quiz (01:06). The app offers a 3-day free trial for its weekly subscription plan. The paywall screen itself is well-designed, featuring a visual timeline of the trial period to build trust and a toggle to enable the free trial. After completing games, the app prompts users to rate their experience (06:04), which is a standard tactic for driving App Store visibility. A 'Streak Freeze' feature is also offered as a potential in-app purchase (03:40) to protect a user's progress.

Who it’s for

This app is for individuals interested in personal development and cognitive enhancement. The onboarding quiz targets a broad audience, with options for those looking to test their IQ, improve memory, manage ADHD, or simply stay mentally sharp. The playful design and gamified elements make it accessible for users of all ages who enjoy puzzles and want a structured way to challenge their minds daily.

Notes & opportunities

While the onboarding is strong, it begins with immediate, context-free system permission prompts for tracking (00:06) and notifications (00:08). Adding custom 'warm-up' screens to explain the benefits of enabling these permissions could improve opt-in rates. Additionally, while many games are available, a large number are locked (e.g., 'Tactical Mind' at 03:55), which could be frustrating for a new user who just subscribed. Unlocking a few more games in the 'Beginner' category initially might improve early retention.