When investigators used artificial intelligence (AI) using a method called Machine-Assisted Topic Analysis (Mata), which combines AI-powered topic modelling with human qualitative analysis, to help them analyze 58,881 X posts referring to the five most profitable fitness apps, they identified several negative themes — for example, challenges of quantifying diet and physical activity, the complexity of tracking calories and exercise through oversimplified algorithms, technical challenges and malfunctions, and aversive emotional responses to the apps’ notifications.
As a result, some users noted feelings of shame, disappointment and demotivation, and subsequent disengagement with apps and health behaviours.
The findings highlight the need for a more user-centred and psychologically informed app design that prioritises wellbeing and intrinsic motivation over rigid, quantitative goals.
