Tools of convenience that gobble up our time

THE last two decades have seen an explosion in the development and adoption of apps and self-service portals. From banking and shopping to healthcare and travel, these tools have become integral to modern life. According to a 2023 report by Statista, there are over five million apps available across major app stores, with global app downloads exceeding 250 billion in 2022 alone. Similarly, self-service portals have become ubiquitous, with businesses and governments increasingly shifting services online to reduce costs and improve accessibility.

The appeal of these tools is clear: They offer convenience, speed, and control. In the case of banking, instead of waiting in line at a bank, users can now manage their finances with a few taps on their smartphone.

Likewise, one can now order groceries or clothing from the comfort of their home.