The article explores the manipulative design tactics employed by major tech companies to enhance user engagement and increase time spent on their apps. Researcher Sissela Nutley, who has a Ph.D. in cognitive neuroscience from Karolinska Institute, articulates that these designs are intentionally crafted to ensure users remain engaged as much and as long as possible, aligning with profit-driven business models.

Nutley details several specific tricks that exploit users' psychological responses. One highlighted technique is 'infinite scrolling', which continuously presents new content to users and triggers their curiosity and need for knowledge. This design effectively keeps users glued to their screens, unable to resist the allure of never-ending information.

Additionally, algorithms curate personalized content based on users' previous interactions, showcasing posts that align with their interests and engagement patterns. This approach not only enhances user experience but also pushes the boundaries by serving content that is more provocative or 'edgy', thus drawing users deeper into the application environment. The implications of these practices raise concerns about mental health and the ethical responsibility of tech companies in influencing user behavior.