What it does
WoodSense is an AI-powered companion for woodworkers of all skill levels. The app's core functions are twofold: identification and creation. Users can take photos to identify both raw wood species and finished wooden crafts, receiving detailed information about each. The app also serves as a comprehensive project library, offering step-by-step tutorials for building furniture and other crafts, complete with tool lists, material lists, and cut lists.
Where it shines
WoodSense excels by combining multiple tools into one cohesive experience. The guided, multi-shot process for identifying wood (01:29) is particularly strong, showing a commitment to accuracy that builds user trust. However, the standout feature is the in-tutorial AI assistant. At any step in a project, a user can tap "I Need Help" (03:35) to get immediate, contextual advice from an AI chat, which is a powerful way to reduce friction and prevent users from abandoning a project in frustration. The clear distinction between identifying a material versus a finished piece of furniture (01:23) also demonstrates a nuanced understanding of the user's needs.
UX highlights
- Structured Identification: The app guides users to capture three specific images for wood identification, including face grain, end grain, and size reference. This methodical process improves accuracy and educates the user.
- Contextual AI Help: The integrated AI assistant (03:46) provides support that is specific to the user's current step in a tutorial, a major improvement over generic help articles.
- Detailed Project Plans: Each project includes exhaustive detail, breaking down the required tools, materials, and a precise cut list before the instructions begin (03:22).
- Content Filtering: The inspiration feed can be easily filtered by categories like "Pro project," "Living Room," and "Outdoor" (03:12), helping users quickly find relevant projects.
- Progress Tracking: The app includes sections for "Workings," "History," and "Brags," allowing users to organize in-progress projects, review past identifications, and save completed work (05:29).
- Clear Action Buttons: The home screen presents two large, clear buttons for its primary functions, making it immediately obvious how to get started (01:23).
Monetization & growth
WoodSense uses a free trial subscription model. After completing a detailed onboarding quiz, the user is presented with a paywall (00:58) offering a 7-day free trial that converts to an annual subscription. The paywall clearly outlines the features unlocked by the premium plan and reframes the annual cost into a more accessible monthly equivalent. The app also employs a growth loop by prompting for an App Store rating early in the user journey (00:52), right after a positive interaction with the app's mascot.
Who it’s for
This app is designed for a broad range of woodworking enthusiasts, from beginners looking for their first project to experienced hobbyists seeking inspiration or quick material identification. The detailed, guided tutorials with AI assistance are particularly valuable for those still learning the craft. It could also serve professionals who need to quickly identify wood on-site or find plans for common furniture types.
Notes & opportunities
While the onboarding quiz is great for personalization, asking for App Tracking permission at the very start of the session (00:03) is a point of high friction that could lead to user drop-off before they experience any value. The powerful "I Need Help" button within tutorials could be made more prominent to increase its usage. Finally, while the dual identification modes are a strength, a brief explanation of the difference between the two on the home screen could further clarify their distinct purposes for new users.