Roost, a “slow-cial” mobile application that delivers messages at the speed of virtual birds, has reached 300,000 users as of early 2025. Created by Logan Mendelsohn, the platform bypasses instant notifications by forcing users to wait hours or days for messages to arrive, a design choice intended to reduce the digital pressure associated with traditional social media.
Why is “slow-cial” media gaining traction?
Users are increasingly seeking alternatives to platforms that demand constant attention, according to creator Logan Mendelsohn. By incorporating friction into the communication process, Roost shifts the focus from rapid-fire engagement to intentional interaction. The app requires users to choose birds for their “rookery,” with delivery times tied to the real-world flight speeds of species like falcons or hummingbirds. For those seeking further delays, the app offers turtles and snails as delivery options, according to TechCrunch.
Roost grew from 10,000 to 100,000 users in just three days after a viral post on Threads described a daughter using the app to send messages in Elizabethan English.
How does Roost manage user privacy?
Logan Mendelsohn, who works as a senior product manager in trust and safety at Ticketmaster, designed the app with safety as a foundational element rather than an afterthought. By default, the app only shares a user’s city with their friends. A “close friends” feature exists to share precise locations, but it must be manually enabled. For the “Pen Pals” feature, which connects anonymous users within the same age group, the app includes explicit warnings against sharing personal contact information. As of now, the app does not support photo sharing while the developer builds out content moderation tools, according to TechCrunch.
What are the challenges of AI-assisted development?
While Mendelsohn utilized Claude Code to build the app’s features—including its mini-games—the reliance on AI-generated art for bird imagery triggered significant backlash from the user base. Mendelsohn stated that he understood the criticism and acknowledged that he could not replace the assets immediately due to the resource constraints of a solo founder with no outside funding. To resolve the tension, the app is currently running a contest to solicit art from human creators. Mendelsohn noted that while AI-assisted development is necessary for a solo developer to maintain an app at this scale, the product’s direction remains guided by user feedback, as reported by TechCrunch.
If you are looking to disconnect, consider apps that prioritize “intentionality.” Look for platforms that remove “read receipts” or “typing indicators” to lower the social pressure of immediate responses.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does message speed work on Roost?
Messages travel at the speed of the bird or animal you select. A falcon delivers a message quickly, while a snail or turtle provides a significantly longer waiting period.
Is Roost funded by venture capital?
No. According to Logan Mendelsohn, the app is a side project with no outside funding. It generates revenue primarily through in-app purchases, such as acquiring additional birds.
Can I share photos on the app?
Currently, no. The app does not support photo sharing, as the developer is prioritizing the implementation of robust content moderation tools first.
How does the app handle anonymous messaging?
The “Pen Pals” feature allows users to message others in their age group. The app includes strict onboarding warnings advising users not to exchange personal contact details or private information.
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