Havn — Case Study

Goal

A private daily photo journal; designed around security, simplicity, and ease-of-use.

Why

I've been wanting a journaling app that didn't cost an arm and a leg for basic features, and that I could trust wouldn't take my data. After trying several options, I decided to build my own, and start the MAAM (Mobile App a Month) project.

Design

I wanted a clean, minimal design that focused on the content. The app uses a simple home screen showing that day's entry, a expanded view for that day's image, and a snippet of that day's entry. The app also includes a history view, allowing users to view multiple past entries at once. And filter between entries with photos, or starred entries for those days that were particularly special.

Development

The app is built using SwiftUI, with a focus on iPhone in particular. I figured since your phone is always with you in today's world, it would make most sence to build it on that platform.

The app uses CoreData to store entries locally, and CloudKit for optional iCloud sync. Keeping everything private and secure, with no third-party tracking or ads.