Apps in this category may contain mild or occasional cartoon, fantasy or real-life violence, as well as occasional or mild adult, sexually suggestive or horrifying content and may not be suitable for children under 9 years of age.

12+

Apps in this category may contain occasional mild indecent language, frequent or intense cartoon or real-life violence, minor or occasional adult or sexually suggestive material, and simulated gambling, and may be for children under 12 years of age.

17+

You must be at least 17 years old to access this App.

Apps in this category may contain frequent and intense offensive language; Frequent and intense cartoon, fantasy or realistic violence: frequent and intense adult, scary and sexually suggestive subjects: as well as sexual content, nudity, tobacco, alcohol and drugs, may not be suitable for children under 17 years of age.

Hugs App Screenshots

iPad

iPhone

About Hugs App

How can we convey the warmth of human touch when hugs are not allowed?

Hugs show appreciation, affection and help us through difficult times when words are not enough. Now more than ever, we need them.

Star House is Central Ohio's only drop-in center for youth experiencing homelessness. They offer young people a safe space, immediate access to basic needs and vital connections to stabilizing resources.

Because of the current situation, staff members cannot give hugs to the kids they care for. In this era of job loss, blinding stress and health concerns, a little empathy and tenderness can be crucial.

In an effort to make things better, our team developed a simple variation on hugs and an app that helps bridge the distance between staff and youth.

Combined with a self-hug, the Hugs app simulates the heartbeat of the person you are sharing the moment with. Give a hug when you are practicing social distancing, during a video call, or send a hug remotely.

How does it work? Launch the app, hold your phone to your chest and feel the heartbeat while visually connecting with the other person.

To send a remote hug, enter your name and the name of a loved one and click send. No data will ever be collected about you or the hug receiver by our app.

This simple solution can be used by everyone for any reason and we hope you will share a hug with anyone who needs one.