Engineering and design notes from behind the scenes of Step FWD, a minimalist walking app for iOS.https://www.step-fwd.app/https://www.step-fwd.app/devlog/visualizing-pace-data/https://www.step-fwd.app/devlog/visualizing-pace-data/How we built a pace chart from noisy GPS samples using a two-stage smoothing pipeline, reversed the Y-axis so faster feels higher, and synced scrubbers across charts for multi-metric correlation.Fri, 27 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.step-fwd.app/devlog/smooth-live-pace-display/https://www.step-fwd.app/devlog/smooth-live-pace-display/Why raw instant pace flickers like a broken stopwatch, how Garmin solved it with 5-second rounding, and how we built a calm pace display that updates only when it matters.Thu, 26 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.step-fwd.app/devlog/custom-navigation-with-variable-blur/https://www.step-fwd.app/devlog/custom-navigation-with-variable-blur/How we replaced UINavigationBar with a branded header system using progressive blur, dark gradients, and layered shadows — and why the stock navigation bar wasn't enough.Wed, 25 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.step-fwd.app/devlog/redesigning-how-you-review-a-walk/https://www.step-fwd.app/devlog/redesigning-how-you-review-a-walk/How adding heart rate stats to session recaps triggered a full redesign of the walk detail screen — informed by competitive analysis of Strava, Apple Fitness, Nike Run Club, and Garmin.Tue, 24 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.step-fwd.app/devlog/adding-a-heart-rate-monitor/https://www.step-fwd.app/devlog/adding-a-heart-rate-monitor/How one new sensor triggered a cascade of changes across Bluetooth, UX, settings, and data persistence — and why the pre-session screen had to be redesigned.Mon, 23 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.step-fwd.app/devlog/designing-without-gamification/https://www.step-fwd.app/devlog/designing-without-gamification/How Step FWD approaches streaks without guilt, avoids badges and leaderboards, and designs motivational systems for adults.Sun, 22 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.step-fwd.app/devlog/privacy-architecture/https://www.step-fwd.app/devlog/privacy-architecture/How Step FWD stores everything on-device with SwiftData, requires no accounts, makes no cloud calls, and ensures deleting the app deletes everything.Sat, 21 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.step-fwd.app/devlog/dual-source-step-tracking/https://www.step-fwd.app/devlog/dual-source-step-tracking/Why Step FWD combines HealthKit and CMPedometer for step counting, and how the reconciliation logic keeps your numbers accurate.Sat, 21 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.step-fwd.app/devlog/gps-route-tracking/https://www.step-fwd.app/devlog/gps-route-tracking/How Step FWD handles route segmentation, pause detection, accuracy filtering, and the battery trade-offs behind GPS tracking.Fri, 20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.step-fwd.app/devlog/on-device-ai-insights/https://www.step-fwd.app/devlog/on-device-ai-insights/How seven statistical engines and Apple's Foundation Models generate personalized walking insights without any data leaving your phone.Thu, 19 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.step-fwd.app/devlog/building-the-voice-coach/https://www.step-fwd.app/devlog/building-the-voice-coach/How we designed a walking companion with 157 audio files, milestone detection, anti-repetition logic, and background audio ducking.Wed, 18 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.step-fwd.app/devlog/opening-our-devlog/https://www.step-fwd.app/devlog/opening-our-devlog/Why we're starting a public devlog for Step FWD, what we'll cover, and what to expect from these posts.Tue, 17 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT