Background There are a vast number of smartphone applications (apps)
aimed at promoting medication adherence on the market; however the theory and evidence base in
terms of applying established health behaviour change techniques (BCTs) underpinning these apps
remains unclear. This study aims to code these apps using a BCT Taxonomy for the presence or
absence of established BCTs. Design The sample of apps will be identified through systematic
searches in both the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. All apps which fall into the search
categories will be downloaded for analysis. Methods The downloaded apps will be screened with
exclusion criteria and suitable apps will be reviewed and coded for BCTs. Coding will be done
independently by two researchers. Expected Results Descriptive data will be presented on the
type and number of BCTs included. Current Stage of Work All free apps from the Apple App store
have been downloaded, screened and are currently being coded. Discussion This research can be
used to provide a link between behaviour change research and software development and point to
areas for further study.
