An unusual application is gaining popularity in China, designed to combat impulsive purchases amid the rise of online shopping. The principle of this app is that the user must obtain the opinion of random people before making a purchase of a desired item.
The app is named Wallet, Please Wait and functions as a mini-program within WeChat. Its main goal is to help people save money and prevent thoughtless spending.
If a user needs to buy an item, they must first provide complete information about it. This information includes the item's name, its cost, and the justification for the purchase. Furthermore, the user indicates whether cheaper alternatives exist on the market.
After filling out the data, the user sends an approval request. This request can be directed not only to friends or family but also to complete strangers. Other users vote on whether the item should be purchased and can leave their comments and advice.
An interesting example of the app's use occurred in China: one journalist requested public approval to buy milk tea costing 20 yuan (about 20 rubles). Out of seven voters, five refused to approve the purchase, considering the tea slightly overpriced for that price, and suggested more budget-friendly options.
Similarly, when asking for an opinion on buying a diary of the same cost, six out of seven respondents supported the purchase. This showed that people form their opinions about an item based on its usefulness and necessity, not just its price.
The app's popularity is driven by the prevalence of online shopping and people's tendency towards unplanned expenses, especially during sales and discounts. In China, Singles' Day on November 11th is celebrated annually as a shopping festival, when online platforms offer significant discounts and promotions. Under such conditions, buyers often rush to place orders due to the fear of missing out on a good deal.
This application allows buyers to pause and consider their intentions before making a purchase. Users can learn the opinions of those around them about the planned item and understand if it is truly necessary for them.
The main advantage of such an app is that it forces a person to think about their needs before making a purchase. When a user describes the reason for the purchase, they themselves begin to better understand their need. For instance, if a person needs a new mobile phone even though the old one still works, others might advise waiting. At the same time, if it concerns a laptop for work, people might recommend its purchase.
Thus, collective opinion can simplify the purchase decision-making process. However, it should be noted that each person's needs and financial situation are unique, so others' opinions should not become the final verdict.
Some users have expressed concerns about excessive reliance on the opinions of strangers for every small and large purchase. They believe that such a practice could gradually weaken a person's self-confidence. Therefore, such an app should be used more as a consultation tool rather than an organ making final purchasing decisions.
Ultimately, the decision of what a person needs and how much they are willing to spend from their income remains with the individual. Overall, the app represents an interesting mechanism that encourages people to slow down and reflect before spending. Although buying everything one likes is not a mistake, avoiding expenses caused solely by promotions is a sensible approach.
