Increasing Desire for Real-Life Connections
It’s pretty common to grab your phone for a quick check and then find yourself aimlessly scrolling for ages. I think we can all relate to that. Our devices make staying connected so effortless, yet paradoxically, there’s this growing trend of people wanting to disconnect from their screens and interact with others in real life.
Run clubs are becoming more popular, local meetups are gaining traction, and events that encourage being phone-free are on the rise. It seems like many are on the lookout for more tangible experiences, ones that feel less like just another digital feed.
This brings up a fascinating question: can technology, which often keeps us glued to our screens, actually help us re-engage with the real world? That’s the premise behind NewTree Social, an app focused on community events, created by 29-year-old Maddy O’Connor. She envisions a platform where people can find activities happening nearby, make plans with friends, and truly experience those events. The timing, perhaps, couldn’t be better.
Shifting Attitudes and Data
There’s legitimate data supporting this shift. Eventbrite conducted a 2026 Social Study that surveyed young adults in the U.S. and U.K., revealing that 79% plan to participate in more events next year. Specifically, among Gen Z participants, 46% indicated that they’re trying to cut back on screen time, and an impressive 74% believe in-person experiences carry more value than digital ones.
Of course, it’s worth noting that this data comes from Eventbrite, a company centered on live events. Still, the findings resonate with what we observe in our daily lives. They reported a 567% increase in phone-free events between 2024 and 2025, with attendance at these gatherings rising by 121%. This was based on events that specifically highlighted “phone-free” in their promotions.
For those who have grown accustomed to constant smartphone access, consciously choosing to put it away is a notable decision. It also opens the door for technology to pivot from keeping us scrolling to helping us discover worthwhile experiences that prompt us to step away from the screen.
O’Connor’s Vision
That’s where O’Connor steps in. She shared with CyberGuy that the inspiration for NewTree emerged from her own experiences of living in Washington, D.C., where she struggled to find community without established friendships. Her environments shaped her experiences, and she recognized a desire for spaces where meeting new people didn’t feel forced.
At the same time, she noticed a surge of interest in activities like run clubs and social gatherings. NewTree was born from that awareness, aiming to connect individuals with local events in comfortable contexts rather than just cold introductions.
For many, walking into a room filled with strangers can be daunting. However, entering a class or community event—something that genuinely interests you—provides a built-in reason for being there, making those initial introductions feel less awkward. This component could make a significant difference for newcomers wanting to expand their social circles.
The App Experience
Using NewTree is straightforward; it features a familiar interface where users can browse local events, RSVP, and receive reminders. But O’Connor intentionally designed it to feel more like a social platform than a mere event directory.
Currently, the app focuses on wellness and community events in areas like Tampa, St. Pete, and Clearwater. It allows hosts to enhance their listings with images or videos, and users can check out events in their vicinity or RSVP directly. O’Connor emphasizes the role of reviews, highlighting that the rating of an event can influence its visibility in the app.
There’s something almost amusing about the premise: you download another social app with the intention of disconnecting from social media. Yet, maybe that’s what makes it effective.
NewTree’s Unique Approach
NewTree enters a competitive landscape where platforms like Meetup and Eventbrite already connect individuals with local happenings. What sets NewTree apart? O’Connor aims for a more community-centered social experience, with the added twist of review-based visibility for events. During its pilot phase, she is directly reviewing and approving hosts to maintain quality.
While none of these strategies hugely innovate event discovery, the hope is that merging them into a more curated experience will provide users with a fresh way to engage in their communities. Convincing users to give NewTree a try amid existing options remains a significant hurdle for the app.
The Real Challenge
Here’s the crucial element: can NewTree facilitate plans that actually lead to real-world interactions? It’s easy to download another app, but the true challenge lies in getting people to leave their homes and show up to events. Ideally, you’d open NewTree, find something enticing, and then pocket your phone in favor of a real experience.
If users merely browse another list of potential outings without taking action, the app’s appeal diminishes. O’Connor acknowledges that NewTree is still in its infancy; she describes it as pre-traction and pre-revenue. She believes focusing on Tampa Bay first will validate the platform before considering expansion across Florida and beyond. It’s clear there’s a long road ahead, but signs suggest that this desire for connection is already materializing.
Addressing Safety and Privacy
Naturally, finding events through the app comes with safety concerns around meeting new people. O’Connor mentioned that during the MVP (Minimum Viable Product) phase, she personally vets hosts before they can publicly promote events. Users have the power to report or block individuals and hosts can manage attendees too.
While NewTree claims to review business profiles before they can post, they clarify that a verified badge only confirms the identity of the business, not an endorsement of any specific event. Their terms state that events are hosted independently and don’t suggest that NewTree conducts background checks on users or organizers.
It’s wise to do some due diligence before attending unfamiliar events. Research the host, confirm the venue’s safety, and if you’re uncertain, consider bringing a friend along. Technology can help bridge connections, but it won’t eliminate the risks inherent in meeting new individuals.
Location and Privacy Considerations
Privacy issues deserve attention as well. O’Connor indicated that NewTree collects basic user data, including names, emails, and locations. Users have the option of using their saved profile location or their device’s location, given they grant permission.
The data is managed through NewTree’s Supabase database, which has access controls meant to secure user information. When someone RSVPs for a free event, hosts receive names, emails, and location data to manage attendee logistics.
Age Ratings and Future Developments
A potential source of confusion arises with the app’s age rating. While Apple lists it as appropriate for ages 13 and up, NewTree states users must be at least 18 to create an account. O’Connor explained that Apple’s rating reflects content guidelines rather than the actual age limit enforced by the app.
Currently, NewTree is available only as an iPhone app, with plans for Android support in the works but not yet realized. The business model is still evolving; O’Connor intends to keep the app free for users eventually while exploring premium tools for hosts and businesses.
Ultimately, NewTree represents a nascent app attempting to respond to a broader cultural shift regarding technology.
Final Thoughts
Most people could benefit from additional incentives to step away from their screens and engage with the world. Given how our phones have infiltrated nearly every aspect of our lives, it’s easy to see how they can overshadow real experiences.
Perhaps we should focus on demanding more from our current technology. If an app can help users discover events, try new experiences, or meet new people, then it acts as a bridge, helping us re-engage with life beyond our devices.
I find that concept encouraging. Use technology to lead you toward something meaningful, then draw your gaze away from the screen and immerse yourself in real-life adventures.
Key Takeaways
What strikes me is how adept technology has become at keeping our attention. With notifications and endless feeds, it’s easy to lose track of time. Yet, many people are signaling a desire for something more; they still value technology, but also seek opportunities for in-person interaction. NewTree has much to prove, but I appreciate O’Connor’s attempt to tackle this issue. Our phones already know how to keep us occupied. Perhaps the next standout app will be the one that encourages us to get out and explore our surroundings.
Would you consider using an app designed to help you disconnect and engage with others, or do you think downloading yet another social app contradicts the point? Share your thoughts.
