Attention Idea: I made an app that can convert almost any file to any other file locally

Pat Walls

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Updated: August 13th, 2025

The Post

Title/Hook: I made an app that can convert almost any file to any other file locally
Format: Share A Demo Video
Impressions: 200000
How many followers they had at the time: 0

Check out the post -> link

Why it works

This post crushed it because it’s a perfect example of ultra-clear value proposition + visual proof + low-friction curiosity hook.

Here’s the deep breakdown:

1. Headline That’s Simple, Bold, and Complete

"I made an app that can convert almost any file to any other file locally"

No fluff — you instantly know what it does.
Mass appeal — “almost any file” covers nearly everyone’s use case, from casual users to pros.
Key differentiator baked in — “locally” triggers trust because it implies privacy, speed, and no internet dependence.
Reads like a personal announcement, which feels authentic and not like a marketing ad.

2. Broad Utility + Curiosity Trigger

Everyone has run into file conversion annoyances, so the claim immediately resonates.

The “almost any file” phrasing creates curiosity — people wonder what’s possible and what’s not.
“Locally” makes tech-savvy users perk up because it signals no shady cloud processing, no data leaks, and faster performance.

3. GIF/Visual Proof in the First Screen

The attached image is actually a subtle GIF — you can see file conversions in action.

This proves the product works without a single extra word.
It turns the post into a mini-demo, which grabs attention in the feed.
The Finder window and file list are instantly recognizable to Mac users, reinforcing the context.

4. Perfect Fit for r/macapps

Audience is actively looking for new, useful Mac utilities.
Local-first tools are particularly appreciated by privacy-conscious Mac users.
The app solves a common pain point without being too niche or too broad.

5. Minimalist Presentation = Higher Engagement

There’s no clutter — no feature list, no technical jargon.

Leaves room for questions in the comments, which drives the 185 replies and boosts Reddit’s ranking algorithm.
Forces interested users to ask “Does it work with X format?” or “Where can I download?” — perfect for organic engagement.

6. Implicit Scarcity Through “Maker Energy”

The “I made an app…” framing subtly signals:

This isn’t a big company — it’s an indie project you can support.
There might be limited availability or a smaller user base, which makes early adoption feel special.

7. Likely Strategic Link Placement (in Comments)

Even though no link is in the post, this probably led to:

People asking “Where can I get it?” → OP replying with the link → every reply bumps the post higher in the feed.
This comment-link strategy works well in subreddits that are picky about self-promotion — you let demand pull the link out.

8. Engagement Mechanics at Play

Upvotes from instant “this is useful” recognition.
Comments driven by curiosity and clarifications.
Shares because file conversion is a universal utility — people tag friends who need it.

meet the author

Pat Walls

I'm Pat Walls and I created Starter Story - a website dedicated to helping people start businesses. We interview entrepreneurs from around the world about how they started and grew their businesses.

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