Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/10419/336609 
Year of Publication: 
2026
Series/Report no.: 
Discussion Paper No. 559
Publisher: 
Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München und Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Collaborative Research Center Transregio 190 - Rationality and Competition, München und Berlin
Abstract: 
Behavioral design in smartphone apps aims at inducing certain, monetizable behavior, mainly increased engagement, measurable by usage time. Such design is rarely transparent and often restricts users' ability to make alternative choices. In a framed field experiment, we document that behavioral design doubles app usage time compared to a version without behavioral elements. Providing users with choices-simply explained and conveniently adjustable design features-reduces usage time and increases their willingness to pay for the app. These findings suggest that offering choice could pave the way for new business models based on more responsible app design.
Subjects: 
smartphone app
behavioral control
filtering algorithm
transparency and choice
self-determination
corporate social responsibility
field experiment
JEL: 
C93
O33
D83
L86
M14
Document Type: 
Working Paper

Files in This Item:
File
Size
355.39 kB





Items in EconStor are protected by copyright, with all rights reserved, unless otherwise indicated.