Customer Reviews (112)

ricardo in va • 2025-02-24T10:35:10-07:00

I’ve been looking for something just like this! So far it’s worked on Safari on my Mac and iPhone.

julie273848494)3 • 2025-02-20T16:57:10-07:00

Thank you so much!

n^niyana • 2025-02-17T15:19:37-07:00

I’ve had this app for a while now and it’s done wonders for my youtube watching experience. I used it to clean up the home page and remove recommendations and all the weird features from the video pages. It makes it so much easier to watch videos that are actually interesting and skip all the dumb garbage slop thats on there. Every once in a while, youtube will update their UI and I’ll see what it looks like without this extension and it’s always just way too much. I also do appreciate the developer for fixing it when this happens, they’re usually pretty quick :)

Summary of Key Insights

UnTrap for YouTube is a Safari extension that aims to provide a distraction-free YouTube browsing experience. Overall, the app receives very positive sentiment, with the majority of users praising its ability to remove distracting elements like Shorts, recommendations, and comments. The key strength is its high level of customization. The primary weakness is the confusion surrounding its functionality only within the Safari browser and not the YouTube app, leading to negative reviews from misinformed users. Some users also report bugs related to search functionality, channel blocking, and occasional breakage after YouTube UI updates. The introduction of a subscription model also caused some negative reactions.

  • Overall Rating: High (based on score distribution)
  • Sentiment: Positive
  • Strengths: Customization, effectiveness in removing distractions, responsive developer (mentioned by some)
  • Weaknesses: Confusion about Safari-only functionality, reported bugs (search, channel blocking), subscription model complaints.
  • Score Distribution: 5-star (68.75%), 4-star (7.14%), 3-star (3.57%), 2-star (1.79%), 1-star (18.75%)

Data & Methodology Overview

  • Data Sample Size: 112 reviews
  • Time Frame: The reviews span a period up to the present, with specific dates mentioned in some reviews (e.g., "27/10/2024").
  • Analysis Methods: Sentiment analysis was performed by examining the tone and content of the reviews. Keyword extraction was used to identify frequently mentioned features, issues, and requests. Reviews were categorized by star rating to quantify sentiment.

Key User Pain Points

  • Confusion about Safari-only functionality: This is the most significant pain point. Many users mistakenly believe the extension works with the YouTube app, leading to frustration and negative reviews.
  • Bugs/Glitches: Several users report issues with specific features not working as expected, including:
    • Search functionality breaking or being slowed down.
    • Channel and video blocking not working consistently.
    • Shorts reappearing after updates.
    • Issues with hiding search history.
    • Inability to remove added words from the filter list.
  • Subscription Model: The introduction of a subscription model has angered some users who preferred the original one-time purchase.
  • Occasional Breakage After YouTube Updates: YouTube UI changes sometimes cause the extension to stop working correctly, requiring developer intervention.
  • Loading speed impacted: Some users report that the extension slows down the loading of previews and videos.

Frequently Requested Features

  • Functionality within the YouTube App: The most frequent request is for the extension to work directly within the YouTube app instead of solely in Safari.
  • Disable Infinite Scrolling: Some users desire the ability to disable infinite scrolling to further reduce distractions.
  • Chrome Version: Several users have expressed interest in a Chrome version of the extension.
  • More Presets: Adding preset options for different levels of distraction blocking.
  • Easier Shorts Removal: A single button to remove shorts everywhere on the site.
  • Temporary Block Feature: A feature to temporarily block the site for a set amount of time.

Strengths and Positive Aspects

  • Effective Distraction Removal: Users consistently praise the app's ability to eliminate distracting elements like Shorts, recommendations, and comments.
  • High Customization: The extensive customization options (177+) are a major selling point, allowing users to tailor their YouTube experience precisely.
  • Improved Focus and Productivity: Many users report that the app has helped them reduce their YouTube consumption, improve focus, and reclaim their time.
  • User-Friendly Interface: The app is generally described as easy to use and intuitive.
  • Responsive Developer: Some users appreciate the developer's responsiveness to bug reports and updates.
  • Minimalist Design: Users like the clean, simple, and minimalist design it enables on YouTube.

Prioritized Action Recommendations

  • High Priority:
    • Address Safari-Only Confusion: Clearly communicate that the extension only works in Safari in the app description, screenshots, and onboarding process. Consider adding a disclaimer that appears upon first launch.
    • Fix Reported Bugs: Prioritize fixing the reported bugs related to search functionality, channel/video blocking, and Shorts reappearance. Thoroughly test after YouTube UI updates.
    • Re-evaluate Subscription Model: Carefully consider the negative feedback regarding the subscription model. Explore alternative monetization strategies or offer a compelling value proposition for subscribers.
  • Medium Priority:
    • Implement Infinite Scrolling Toggle: Add an option to disable infinite scrolling.
    • Improve Keyword/Channel Blocking: Enhance the keyword and channel blocking functionality to ensure it works consistently.
    • Optimize Loading Speed: Investigate and address the reported slowdown in loading speeds.
  • Low Priority:
    • Add More Presets: Consider adding preset options for different levels of distraction blocking.
    • Enhance First-Time User Experience: Improve the initial user experience by providing clearer instructions and guidance.

Opportunities for Startup Ideas

  • YouTube App Extension (if technically feasible): If possible, explore developing a similar extension that works directly within the YouTube app. This would address the most significant user demand.
  • Browser Extension Suite: Expand the concept to other social media platforms or websites known for being distracting (e.g., Amazon, news sites). The developer already has a "Dumbphone" app, so this aligns with their existing product philosophy.
  • AI-Powered Content Filtering: Integrate AI to automatically identify and filter out content based on user-defined criteria (e.g., clickbait, sensationalism).
  • Focus Mode for Other Apps: Develop similar extensions or apps for other apps and websites that users find distracting.
  • Parental Control Features: Add features specifically designed for parental control, such as content filtering, time limits, and usage monitoring.

Trends and Observations

  • Strong Desire for Focus and Productivity: The reviews highlight a strong desire among users to regain control over their online experience and reduce distractions.
  • Negative Reaction to Subscription Model: The introduction of a subscription model appears to have generated significant negative feedback, suggesting that users may prefer a one-time purchase option.
  • Recurring Bugs After YouTube Updates: YouTube UI changes frequently cause the extension to break, indicating a need for a more robust and adaptable architecture.
  • High Value Placed on Customization: Users highly value the ability to customize their YouTube experience, suggesting that this should remain a core feature.

Conclusion

UnTrap for YouTube is a well-regarded Safari extension that effectively helps users reduce distractions and improve their YouTube experience. However, the confusion surrounding its Safari-only functionality and the reported bugs are significant weaknesses. Addressing these issues, along with carefully considering the monetization strategy, will be crucial for the app's continued success. The developer should prioritize clear communication, bug fixes, and exploring alternative monetization options. By focusing on these areas, UnTrap for YouTube can solidify its position as a leading productivity tool for YouTube users.

Original App Link

https://apps.apple.com/us/app/untrap-for-youtube/id1637438059?uo=2