Rebuilding thnx tags cross-platform mobile app for lost item recovery

The challenge

thnx tags is an innovative lost-and-found solution designed to help people recover lost items such as mobile phones, luggage, and backpacks. The system uses physical tags with unique QR codes that can be attached to valuables, allowing finders to contact owners by scanning the label. It relies on human honesty and community spirit.

The challenge was to rebuild their existing mobile application from an unknown technology stack while integrating with an existing backend with limited documentation. The previous app provided a solid foundation but left room for improvement in several key areas. It used a partially native structure, which occasionally required users to switch to browsers for functions like ordering tags. While functional, the user experience could be simplified by reducing navigation steps and modernising the interface with more visual elements. Additionally, optimising scanning behaviour and streamlining sign-in or sign-up processes were identified as opportunities to enhance overall usability and automation.

Our solution

WeAreBrain developed fully cross-platform iOS and Android applications using React Native, delivering a performant, cost-effective, and maintainable solution. By using a single codebase, we ensured a consistent user experience across platforms, accelerated development, and simplified long-term maintenance.

1. Native-like performance with cross-platform efficiency
   We rebuilt the app entirely with React Native, using its ability to render native components and integrate with device APIs. This ensured high performance for security-critical features such as QR code scanning and notifications. It also enabled shared development across platforms to reduce costs and complexity.
2. Streamlined user experience
   We redesigned the entire app experience in line with brand guidelines and mobile app best practices. We eliminated complex navigation and duplicate features. The new design prioritises visual data over text-heavy screens, creating a more engaging and intuitive interface.
3. Enhanced functionality
   Our solution includes an integrated image editor that allows users to create QR labels on screensaver images for phones, laptops, and iPads. We also developed subscription-based logic to provide additional features for users based on their membership level.

The result

Thanks to our focused four-month development cycle, thnx tags now delivers a seamless, fully cross-platform mobile experience built entirely with React Native. Users can complete critical flows, such as tag ordering, within the app itself, without disruptive browser redirects.

1. Enhanced performance
   By using React Native’s ability to render native UI components and access device hardware, we ensured smooth performance for key features such as QR code scanning and push notifications. These are essential for a secure and responsive user experience.
2. Streamlined maintenance
   Using a unified React Native codebase has simplified long-term maintenance. Shared logic across iOS and Android platforms reduces duplication, speeds up updates, and lowers ongoing development costs.

The platform now provides a reliable, user-friendly solution for lost item recovery while maintaining the privacy and battery-free operation that makes thnx tags unique in the market.

Technology used:
React Native for cross-platform development

Mobile apps:
Android | iOS