The below evaluation is an example of the types of information you may find when using our Model to assess specific apps. This sample evaluation is not intended to enable you to make a decision about choosing these specific apps for actual use, as such a decision is a personal one that you will make based on your own unique preferences, needs, and evaluation. We strongly encourage you to download these apps for yourself and use our Model to conduct your own assessment.
This evaluation was completed December 6th and 7th, 2019, and is based on publicly available information found by our Panel at that time. In June 2020, APA's contacted the app developers and offered to them an opportunity to provide feedback on these assessments. Comments from developers who responded are included here. These comments do not necessarily reflect publicly available information at the time of the original assessment or presently.
Access & Background
On which platforms/operating systems does the app work? Does it also work on desktop?
iOS, Google Play, Android, chromeOS, DeX
Has the app been updated in the last 180 days?
Yes
From Daylio: Still in active development, monthly release cycles.
Does the app identify ownership?
Made by a start-up company, Relaxio s.r.o.
Does the app identify funding sources and conflicts of interest?
No
From Daylio: No funding, no conflicts.
Does the app come from a trusted source?
A start-up company, Relaxio s.r.o.
Does the app claim to be medical?
No
Are there additional or hidden costs?
User can buy the premium version of the app for a one-time cost.
Does the app work offline?
Yes
Does the app work with accessibility features of the iPhone/Android? Is it accessible for those with impaired vision or other disabilities?
Not tested.
Privacy & Safety
Is there a transparent privacy policy that is clear and accessible before use?
Does the app collect, use, and/or transmit sensitive data? If yes, does it claim to do so securely?
Data is stored only locally on the user's personal device. A user can opt in/out to share usage and crash data. Files that a user "shares" from the app are not encrypted. Free version can share/export CSV files, backup/restore to/from Google Drive (on Android) and iCloud (on iOS). Paid in-app purchase gives the option to share/export PDF files.
Does the app declare data use and purpose?
Yes, in terms like "usage."
Can you opt out of data collection or delete data?
Yes
Does the app describe use of PHI?
Does not state that it uses PHI.
From Daylio: Do not use PHI.
Is data maintained in the device or on the web?
On the device. Optionally on cloud services for backup/restore functions, and to OS-provided sharing services.
From Daylio: Optional backup is happening on customer cloud storage or he can take backup file and store anywhere.
Does the app explain security systems used?
Yes. Unclear if it is encrypted. If a user opts for paid in-app purchases, a PIN lock function is enabled on the app.
From Daylio: We also disclose details in Privacy policy: We encrypt authorization information and user settings with a unique encryption key stored in iCloud account. Transfer is secured and Google/Apple use additional encryption layers.
What third parties does the app share data with?
Free version requires use of AdMob Google Inc. with cookies, Google Advertiser ID. Optionally: Google Inc., AdMob Google Inc., iCloud.
From Daylio: No 3rd parties has access to user recoded data. Some user behavior is collected anonymously to analytics if user give consent.
If appropriate, is the app equipped to respond to potential harms or safety concerns?
No. We tried entering "suicide" and "suicidal" in the journal entry — no response by the app.
Clinical Foundation
Does the app appear to do what it claims to do?
Yes
Is there evidence of specific benefit from academic institutions, publications, end user feedback or research studies?
Does not state clinical benefits or outcomes, but their Help section suggests that mood tracking could help with depression and bipolar disorder. No articles about clinical use were found on Google Scholar.
Does the app have a clinical/recovery foundation relevant to your intended use?
Yes, for journaling and mood tracking.
Is the app content correct, well-written, and relevant?
Yes
What are the relevant sources or references supporting the app use cases?
None found.
Was there an attempt to validate app usability and feasibility?
None found.
Is there evidence of effectiveness/efficacy?
None found.
Usability
Does the app seem easy to use?
Yes, it's quite straightforward.
What are the main engagement styles of the app?
Notifications, tracking
Do the app and its features align with your needs and priorities?
Yes, with respect to the needs and priorities of this reviewer.
Is it customizable?
Customizable moods, colors, different emojis, themes, and activities, even in free version.
Does the app clearly define its functional scope?
Yes, in the opinion of this reviewer, the app clearly outlines its use cases and target audience (e.g., those who wish to track their moods and journal experiences).
Therapeutic Goal
Can data be easily shared and interpreted in a way that's consistent with the stated purpose of the app?
Free version can share/export CSV files, backup/restore to/from Google Drive (on Android) and iCloud (on iOS). Paid in-app purchase gives the option to share/export PDF files.
Do you own your data?
Yes
Can the app share data with EMR and other data tools (Apple HealthKit, FitBit)?
No
Is the app for individual use or to be used in collaboration with a provider? If intended to be used with a provider, does the app have the ability to export or transfer data?
Not intended, but it offers features including exporting and sharing PDF files with paid version, and CSV files with free version.
Does the app lead to any positive behavior change or skill acquisition?
Possibly, but not explicit.
Does the app improve therapeutic alliance between patient and provider?
Possibly, but not explicit.