I don't think the analogy is apt. People need ways to socialize and many are isolated by, among other things, overabundance of individual or shallow entertainm

I don't think the analogy is apt. People need ways to socialize and many are isolated by, among other things, overabundance of individual or shallow entertainment, overabundance of entertainment vs. learning and challenging activities, and excessive demands of work. An app simply trying to connect people could bring less of the former. The problem isn't apps (or 'tech') per se, it's more of a systemic problem. The solutions will almost definitely involve a mix or cultural evolution, technology, and the impact of various groups and organizations.