This project is the perfect intersection of something I need, something I can be proud of, and something I can learn from. Side projects are hard, its always been hard for me to find things I actually care about enough to build them. I consider myself a craftsman in my trade of software engineering. So if I do build something, I want to be proud of it.
The core motivation however is pretty meta. While I don't think AI makes my profession obsolete, it's definitely a game changing tool. As any good craftsman, I want to be skilled at the tools available to me. As a primarily python backend engineer, building an Android app is completely out of field for me. New programming language, new tooling, new principles, design concerns etc... The perfect ground to see what I can build with the help of AI. And learn how to best utilize AI along the way.
I am not much of a salesman or a marketeer. Putting a monetization scheme into the app would cause more frustration and be highly demotivating than any potential gain. I know one cannot pay bills with good will and pride. But I'd rather take comfort in the knowledge that I built something people actually benefit from. Something that is an overall positive for society. And if a small percentage of those decide to buy me a coffee or support me via donations even better.
Therefore, you are welcome to support me on this journey if you find the app brings you value.