Does deleting apps work, or do you just use the browser?

Quick answer

The claim: deleting a social app does nothing because you just open it in the browser. Others say the clunkier browser version is exactly why it works. Here's what we found.

What 125x is: 125x is a web app at 125x.app. You connect your YouTube subscriptions, and it gives you a feed of the latest videos from the channels you follow, each with a summary: a verdict, the 5 key takeaways, and the spoiler, plus Actionable and Lessons tabs with more tips. You read that and decide what's actually worth opening.

Open 125x

What a study found

In a 2020 study, people who were paid to deactivate Facebook for four weeks spent more time offline, including with friends and family, and reported a small rise in well-being. Many kept using it less after the study ended (a 2020 study).

Where the claim is right

A browser tab is one tap away.
Habits move to whatever app is left.
Deleting one app does nothing about the urge.

Make it stick

Log out in the browser so each visit takes effort.
Turn off autocomplete for the site.
Decide when you'll check, and use a timer.
See limit YouTube on your phone.

FAQ: questions people ask

Does deleting social media apps reduce use?

It adds friction. A 2020 study found people who quit Facebook for a month spent more time offline.

Is using the browser version better than the app?

Often yes, because it's slower and has fewer notifications. Stay logged out for more friction.

What if I just switch to another app?

Pick a replacement activity ahead of time, like reading.