A new app named Lately has recently made its debut on the App Store, designed specifically to assist individuals with ADHD in improving their punctuality. Developed by indie creator Erik MacInnis, the app aims to tackle common challenges like time blindness and poor time estimation — two hurdles often faced by people with ADHD.
Lately sends timely reminders 30, 10, and 5 minutes before a scheduled departure, ensuring users are constantly aware of when they need to leave. It also leverages iPhone and Apple Watch’s Live Activities feature to display a live countdown, making it even easier to stay on track. To make punctuality more rewarding, the app incorporates a gamified point system across four difficulty levels, from “Goldfish” for beginners to “Yoda” for experts. Points earned can unlock virtual characters, offering users a sense of accomplishment as they level up.
Although similar apps exist, MacInnis believes that Lately stands apart by focusing specifically on commuting time management rather than general task planning. During early tests, Lately has been praised for its utility, although it currently lacks support for public transport or cycling routes — an enhancement that could be crucial for users in metro cities like Mumbai or Delhi.
Looking ahead, MacInnis plans to introduce a social feature that will automatically notify friends of a user’s departure, proximity, and arrival. An Android version is also in the pipeline. Lately is available for free, with an optional premium subscription priced at ₹250 per year, allowing customization of difficulty levels and recurring trip schedules. With India’s growing awareness around mental health tools, Lately could find a strong user base among Indian smartphone users seeking better time management solutions.
