We discuss App vs WhatsApp in our AI4PH Quit Coach Workshops
As a rapidly evolving area within the public health space, digital smoking cessation tools available to local authorities and public sector organisations are continuing to grow and adapt. And this was exactly what CC2i explored in a series of July workshops focusing – in particular – on how WhatsApp can be an effective mode of communication.Â
Drawing on insight and statistics from the 2024 OFCOM report to bring this to life, our three fully booked workshops highlighted how and why WhatsApp was the chosen platform for our AI Quit Coach, a 24/7 year-round support tool, developed to aid those in their journey in giving up smoking for good. Developed in partnership with Bullet Digital Solutions, and with growing interest from councils across the UK, the sessions offered a timely opportunity to demonstrate the value and impact of this innovative approach.
Covered in each workshop, important insights from the OFCOM report included:Â
- The percentage of online adults using WhatsApp
- The average time spent on the platform
- Those that use a smartphone solely for the internet
- WhatsApp usage for men and women
We then explored in more detail why WhatsApp may be the preferred choice for many users. CC2i’s Product Owner, Sam Partridge, highlighted the platform’s existing popularity, the familiarity of its interface, growing digital fatigue with traditional apps, and the ease of access WhatsApp offers. These were all key considerations in shaping the approach and development of Quit Coach, with the goal of creating a supportive and user-friendly experience.
Digital smoking cessation tools need to address several key areas to provide a complete user experience and meet smoking cessation guidelines. To illustrate this, Sam provided a comparison during the session, outlining how Quit Coach and other similar tools cover these essential elements – giving attendees a clear snapshot of what each solution offers.
The sessions received an overwhelmingly positive response, with the questions asked ranging from how the tool could integrate with existing practices, what information governance processes have been put in place, behavioural change techniques and the AI model and its capabilities. Meetings are already in place to discuss specific requirements in more detail, such as the Quit Coach integrating with existing GP practices and, expanding on its capabilities, the tool being adapted into a family weight management service. The technology that powers the Quit Coach is completely configurable and has the potential to address a range of health issues alongside smoking and with weight management as another key focus for local authorities, tackling this innovatively is an opportunity that CC2i and Bullet are only too happy to get on board with!
If you’d like to learn more, or request the slides and a copy of the session recording, get in touch using the button below.
