WeWard's Walking Mode: A Revolutionary App Feature Honored by TIME in 2026

WeWard's Walking Mode Named as One of TIME's Best Inventions of 2026

In a world increasingly distracted by screens, WeWard has found a way to bring attention back to physical activity. The walking-centric lifestyle app, supported by renowned tennis champion Venus Williams, recently celebrated its listing among TIME's Best Inventions of 2026, specifically within the Apps & Software category. This recognition solidifies WeWard's position as a leader in promoting healthier lifestyles through technology.

The Walking Mode feature, launched in July 2026, has resonated with users for its innovative approach to limiting screen time while encouraging physical movement. Central to its design is a straightforward premise: walk first, scroll later. Users can lock away distracting apps—such as social media and mobile games—until they meet a predetermined walking goal for the day. Once the target is achieved, users can access their applications, but the restrictions reset at midnight each day, thus continuing to motivate daily movement.

Yves Benchimol, WeWard's CEO and co-founder, expressed the company's pride in this achievement: "It's an incredible honor to be named to TIME's Best Inventions of 2026 List among such great company. We’re proud of the way Walking Mode has resonated so strongly among our users, and we believe it’s a clear reflection that we're addressing a real need for people to spend more time outdoors and active."

TIME’s Best Inventions list has a long history of recognizing groundbreaking products and services that significantly impact daily life. Each candidate is thoroughly assessed based on originality, effectiveness, ambition, and impact, with contributions from a panel of experts. This year’s list features 300 innovations, including well-known products like the iPhone Duo and the GoPro Mission 1 Pro ILS. The inclusion of WeWard's Walking Mode reflects a growing trend toward health, sustainability, and lifestyle enhancement through technology.

WeWard has been transforming the way individuals experience walking since its inception in 2019. The app rewards over 30 million users for integrating walking into their daily routines by providing tangible incentives such as cash rewards, charitable contributions, and gift options. Daily step counts can be redeemed within the WeWard platform, which not only gamifies activity but also encourages social interactions through challenges and leaderboards.

Since its launch, WeWard has given back approximately $50 million to its users and contributed around $1.5 million to charity initiatives, significantly impacting local communities. With a staggering total of over 750,000 tons of CO2 emissions saved from walking activities, the app prioritizes both personal health and environmental sustainability, appealing to users driven by social responsibility.

As WeWard contemplates its next phase of growth, the app continues to make strides in enhancing it’s Walking Mode feature, which is available for iOS users, with an Android version expected to launch soon. The app has surged ahead in popularity, especially in the U.S., where it has experienced rapid growth, crossing the 5 million user mark this year.

Given its ambitious mission to inspire a more active lifestyle globally, WeWard invites everyone to download the app and embrace the joy of walking. In a busy world, it’s crucial to prioritize movement and health—something WeWard's innovation has made easier than ever before.

For more information on WeWard and to join a community that celebrates walking, visit the official website at www.wewardapp.com.