App Showcase: AI Cleanup

What it does

AI Cleanup is a mobile utility designed to help users reclaim storage space on their devices. Its core function is to scan for and remove unnecessary files like similar photos, duplicates, and screenshots. Beyond cleaning, the app offers a suite of related tools, including a video compressor, a secure vault for private files, and even security alarms.

Where it shines

The app's primary strength lies in its aggressive and persuasive onboarding funnel. Before asking for any permissions, it runs a simulated scan (00:02 - 00:20) that uses rapidly changing numbers to create a sense of urgency and convince the user that their phone has a serious problem only the app can solve. The main dashboard (00:47) is also well-designed, clearly presenting its multiple features as a suite of distinct tools, which effectively communicates the value packed into the subscription.

UX highlights

• The file management interface is intuitive, allowing users to sort by different criteria like 'Largest' or 'Newest' (01:01), which is a practical feature for finding what to delete.
• When cleaning photos, the app offers a clear 'Select All' and 'Deselect All' toggle (01:04), simplifying bulk actions.
• The video compression tool provides simple, understandable quality options ('Max,' 'Medium,' 'Optimal') and quantifies the space saved (02:12).
• Setting up the 'Secret Space' is straightforward, using a standard PIN creation flow (02:27) that feels familiar and secure.
• The app provides clear confirmation screens after each major action, such as deleting files (01:14) or successfully compressing a video (02:21), giving users reassuring feedback.
• Visual progress indicators are used effectively during processes like compression (02:15), keeping the user informed.

Monetization & growth

The monetization strategy is front and center. The app gates all functionality behind a mandatory subscription, presented after the simulated onboarding scan. It offers a 3-day free trial that converts to a $19.99/week plan (00:20). There are no other plans or lifetime options visible in the flow. This high-friction, single-option approach is designed to convert users who have been convinced of the app's immediate value during the high-urgency onboarding.

Who it’s for

This app is targeted at non-technical users who feel their phone is slow or running out of space but don't know how to manually manage their files. The 'AI' branding and automated suggestions appeal to those looking for a simple, one-tap solution. The feature set also caters to users concerned with privacy (Secret Space) and security (Alarms), broadening its appeal beyond just a simple cleaning utility.

Notes & opportunities

The onboarding's use of simulated, fluctuating numbers (00:08, 00:13) is a deceptive dark pattern that could lead to user distrust and high churn rates once the initial promise doesn't match reality. While likely effective for initial conversions, it's a risky long-term strategy. Additionally, the post-subscription barrage of three system prompts in a row (00:39 - 00:46) could be overwhelming for some users, even if they are already committed.