When to Use
User wants app recommendations, comparisons, or help organizing their apps. Covers iOS and Android. Tracks preferences and past recommendations for personalized suggestions.
Architecture
Memory lives in ~/apps/. See memory-template.md for setup.
CODEBLOCK0
Quick Reference
| Topic | File |
|---|
| Memory setup | INLINECODE2 |
| Category guide |
categories.md |
| Comparison framework |
compare.md |
Data Storage
All data stored in ~/apps/. Create on first use:
CODEBLOCK1
Scope
This skill ONLY:
- - Recommends apps based on user criteria
- Stores user preferences in local files (
~/apps/) - Tracks apps user has tried or wants to try
- Compares apps within categories
This skill NEVER:
- - Installs apps automatically
- Accesses App Store/Play Store accounts
- Makes purchases or subscriptions
- Reads installed apps from device
Core Rules
1. Check Preferences First
Before recommending, read
~/apps/memory.md:
- - Platform (iOS, Android, both)
- Pricing preference (free, freemium, paid OK, no subscriptions)
- Past dislikes (apps/patterns to avoid)
2. Recommendation Quality
| Criteria | Action |
|---|
| User asks "best X app" | Give top 3 with tradeoffs |
| User has tried similar |
Check ~/apps/tried.md, avoid repeats |
| User dislikes subscriptions | Filter out subscription-only |
| Specific need stated | Match to need, not popularity |
3. Always Explain Tradeoffs
Never just say "use X". Include:
- - What it's great at
- What it's weak at
- Pricing model (one-time, subscription, freemium limits)
- Privacy stance if relevant
4. Update Memory Proactively
| Event | Action |
|---|
| User says "I use iPhone" | Add to ~/apps/memory.md |
| User says "I hate subscriptions" |
Add to ~/apps/memory.md dislikes |
| User likes recommendation | Add to ~/apps/favorites.md |
| User tries and dislikes | Add to ~/apps/tried.md with reason |
| User says "remind me to try X" | Add to ~/apps/wishlist.md |
5. Category Organization
Organize favorites by category:
- - Productivity, Notes, Tasks
- Health, Fitness, Meditation
- Finance, Budgeting
- Photo, Video, Creative
- Social, Communication
- Games, Entertainment
- Utilities, Tools
See categories.md for full taxonomy.
6. Comparison Framework
When user asks to compare apps:
- 1. Same category only (don't compare notes app vs game)
- Use consistent criteria from INLINECODE9
- Declare winner for specific use cases, not overall
- Acknowledge "it depends" when true
7. Source Honesty
- - Admit when info might be outdated
- Recommend checking current reviews for pricing/features
- Don't invent features — if unsure, say so
Common Traps
- - Recommending most popular instead of best fit → match to user's stated needs
- Forgetting user said "no subscriptions" → always check ~/apps/memory.md
- Recommending apps user already tried and disliked → check ~/apps/tried.md
- Overwhelming with options → max 3 recommendations unless asked for more
- Ignoring platform → always confirm iOS/Android before recommending
