- विज्ञापन -
A product designer from Bengaluru, Chandra Ramanujan, ignited an online debate after criticizing Swiggy Instamart for automatically adding free tomatoes to his cart, labeling it a “dark pattern.” Ramanujan took to X to express his frustration when he discovered that 500 grams of tomatoes had been added without his consent or the option to remove them.
He commented, “Very bad design in Swiggy Instamart, where an item is automatically added to my cart. I don’t want tomatoes, but I cannot remove them. Even if I’m not paying for it, this is basket sneaking, which is a dark pattern,” along with screenshots of his order.
For those unfamiliar, a dark pattern refers to design techniques that manipulate users into making choices they wouldn’t have made otherwise, often without their awareness or consent. These patterns can subtly trick users into purchasing extra items or signing up for services.
Ramanujan clarified that although he wasn’t charged for the tomatoes, the absence of choice was frustrating. His post has received over 72,000 views and ignited various reactions.
One user questioned whether free items still counted as a dark pattern, noting the inability to remove them. Ramanujan replied, “I don’t want something, but it’s coming anyway. It doesn’t matter if it’s free.”
Many users supported Ramanujan, emphasizing that customers should have the final say. One highlighted that while Swiggy is struggling, Zomato is rapidly gaining ground, and there’s a demand for a brand that profits businesses while better serving consumers.
Another user noted that competing service Zepto allows customers to opt out of freebies, unlike Swiggy Instamart. Although some participants found humor in the situation and suggested that Ramanujan donate the tomatoes, he remained firm in his stance.
Ultimately, Ramanujan muted the post, but the discussion regarding consumer choice and dark patterns continued to flourish online. As for Swiggy Instamart, they have not yet addressed the criticism, but they may need to rethink their approach to adding tomatoes to orders.
