Mannequin

Social media. Redesigned for connection.

The problem with social media today

Manipulative algorithms and dark patterns maximize users' screen time

Only 46% of Americans report that they connect with their close friends when using social media

Infinite feeds, notifications, and trending lists create unsettledness, fear of missing out, and stress-scrolling

People stay always-on even when they consciously want to disconnect

How Mannequin is different

Mannequin app screenshots showing the connections tab

Designed for Meaningful Connection

Mannequin is explicitly designed around meaningful connection with close friends rather than engagement maximization or content discovery.

No endless feeds

Mannequin does not include a short-form content tab. Instead, content is limited to a small, friends-only feed, and a unique "connections" tab.

a connections tab with a real purpose

This connections tab offers simple, research-backed ways to reach out. Each major element has a specific purpose rooted in known approaches to building connection in real life.

Built through research

Mannequin is developed as a scientific research project on social media and emotional well-being, not just as another consumer app.

Research thesis

Academic supervision and hypothesis testing

Under the supervision of researchers at the University of Twente, our analysis methods test concrete hypotheses about how interface design affects perceived connection.