Mobile apps frequently interrupt users with requests to rate them, often at inconvenient moments. These prompts have become so pervasive that they degrade the user experience, creating frustration and sometimes even harming an app's reputation when users feel pressured to rate. While some users may want to provide feedback, many would prefer a way to permanently opt out of these interruptions.

The Solution: A Universal Opt-Out

One way to address this issue is by introducing a system-level setting in mobile operating systems that allows users to universally disable all app rating prompts. When enabled, this setting would prevent any app from displaying rating requests, regardless of the developer's implementation. The toggle could be placed in the notifications or app permissions section, giving users full control. Those who still wish to rate apps could do so manually via the app store at their convenience.

Key features could include:

• A single toggle to suppress all rating prompts system-wide
• Optional granular controls, like allowing prompts from select apps or scheduling quiet hours
• Periodic, non-intrusive reminders in the app store for users who want to rate apps voluntarily

Stakeholder Considerations

For users, this would mean fewer interruptions and greater control over their experience. App developers might initially resist, as ratings help with visibility, but they could benefit from not annoying users and potentially receiving higher-quality feedback from engaged users who rate voluntarily. Mobile OS developers could use this as a differentiating feature to improve user satisfaction.

To ensure compliance, app stores could mandate that all rating prompts use standardized APIs that respect this setting. Heuristic detection could handle non-standard implementations. The feature could start with the latest OS versions and expand if successful.

Implementation Strategy

A simple MVP could begin with just the toggle in device settings. If successful, it could expand to cover other intrusive prompts like surveys or review requests. For monetization, device manufacturers could offer it as a premium feature, or insights about prompt frequency could be provided to developers to help them optimize their approaches.

Compared to existing solutions like iOS's standardized prompt or Android's notification channels, this approach would give users more comprehensive control. Third-party popup blockers currently attempt this but often fail because they work around the system rather than with it. A native OS implementation would be more reliable and efficient.