Ann Arbor Times

An Eastern Michigan University student has developed a mobile application aimed at addressing the challenges of sexually transmitted infection (STI) disclosure and promoting safer sex practices. Max Morefield, a master’s student in EMU’s entrepreneurship program, created KISS, an app that enables users to manage their sexual health privately and notify partners anonymously about potential STI exposure. The app is now available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play.

“We have tools for everything else in our lives, banking, fitness, even mental health,” Morefield said. “Sexual health deserves the same innovation.”

Morefield was inspired to create KISS after his own experience with STI disclosure and observing how COVID-19 contact tracing apps functioned. He saw a need for digital solutions specifically designed for sexual wellness.

The KISS app allows users to scan a QR code with their partner during an encounter, establishing a private link between them. If someone later tests positive for an STI, they can use the app to notify past partners instantly and anonymously without sharing personal information such as phone numbers or other identifying data. Additional features include medication reminders, a calendar for tracking health history, and educational resources covering topics like consent, gender identity, and information on more than two dozen STIs.

To encourage user engagement and transparency, KISS sends reminders to log encounters and test results while providing prompts about safe sex practices and disclosure with partners. The platform collects no personal data from its users; this approach aligns with research indicating that anonymity increases willingness to share sensitive health details.

“We want to make it easy for people to do the right thing,” Morefield said. “By removing the fear and judgment, we’re building a healthier, more accountable community.”

Since its launch earlier this year, KISS has attracted over 300 users across iOS and Android platforms. Updates currently underway include integration of verified STI test results, upgrades to ensure HIPAA compliance on the backend, interface redesigns, and new features such as “Doctor’s Advice” offering medical insights. Plans are also in place for future versions of the app that may introduce a sexual health marketplace and explore partnerships with public health organizations.

Morefield acknowledged that his participation in EMU’s Executive Certificate in Entrepreneurship program along with MBA coursework played a significant role in shaping both the vision for KISS and its growth strategy.

“EMU gave me the structure to turn a concept into a real product that can impact lives,” he said. “The mentorship and hands-on curriculum were instrumental.”

Eastern Michigan University was founded in 1849 as Michigan’s second oldest public university. It currently enrolls nearly 13,000 students pursuing degrees across more than 300 academic programs through its various colleges including Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; as well as its graduate school. National publications have recognized EMU for excellence in education diversity initiatives [https://www.emich.edu/about/points-of-pride.php] as well as applied learning opportunities [https://www.emich.edu/about/rankings.php]. Further information about Eastern Michigan University can be found at https://www.emich.edu/. For updates on university news or activities visit https://today.emich.edu/.