What it does
Clear Wave is a mobile utility app designed to maintain and test a phone's audio hardware. Its primary feature is a speaker cleaner that uses specific sound frequencies to eject water and dust. The app also includes a suite of audio tools: a decibel meter to measure environmental noise, a tone generator for creating specific frequencies, and a stereo test to check left and right channel functionality.
Where it shines
Clear Wave excels at making abstract processes feel tangible and effective. During the speaker cleaning cycle (00:59), the app provides a reassuring stream of multi-sensory feedback, including audio tones, a visual progress bar, and animated particles. This builds user confidence. The app also cleverly gamifies device maintenance with a "7-day cleaning Plan" (00:47), turning a one-off task into a recurring habit to boost retention. Finally, the dB meter feature is well-implemented, offering not just a live reading but also the ability to capture a photo with the noise data overlaid (03:30), creating a shareable and useful report.
UX highlights
- Gamified retention: The 7-day cleaning plan (00:49) uses progression and locked content to encourage daily engagement in a utility app.
- Clear instructions: Before starting a cleaning cycle, the app provides simple, illustrated instructions on how to position the phone for best results (00:57).
- Multi-tool approach: The app bundles four distinct audio utilities (Cleaner, Tone Generator, dB Meter, Stereo Test) into one, increasing its overall value proposition.
- Contextual permission requests: When the dB meter is first used, a custom modal explains why microphone access is needed before the system prompt appears (03:20).
- Tangible feedback: The success screen after a cleaning cycle uses a checkmark and confetti animation (02:00), providing a satisfying sense of completion.
- Clean, focused interfaces: Each tool has its own dedicated screen with minimal clutter, making it easy to understand and operate, like the simple swipe control in the Tone Generator (02:55).
Monetization & growth
Clear Wave's monetization strategy is front and center. After a brief feature walkthrough, the app presents a mandatory paywall at 00:26. It offers a single subscription plan with a 3-day free trial, which is auto-enabled via a toggle. The copy focuses on the premium features unlocked, like "Powerful Water Eject" and "Precise Decibel Meter." The purchase is handled through the standard Apple payment sheet, and a simple success modal (00:41) confirms the subscription, leading directly into the main app experience.
Who it’s for
This app is for anyone concerned with their phone's audio health and performance. Its primary use case is for people who have gotten their phone wet and need a quick way to clear water from the speakers. Secondary users include audio technicians, musicians, or hobbyists who could benefit from the handy tone generator and dB meter. It also serves general users who want a simple tool to check if their speakers are working correctly.
Notes & opportunities
The onboarding flow is very direct but could feel aggressive by presenting two system permission prompts (00:02, 00:04) before demonstrating any value. Delaying these requests or adding warm-up screens could improve the initial user experience. Additionally, the 7-day cleaning plan is a great idea, but the descriptions for future days are only visible after tapping into the plan (00:50). Surfacing a preview of these upcoming tasks on the main screen could further enhance the sense of a structured program and boost long-term engagement.