Ask HN: Any modern mobile friendly family tree / genealogy builders?

4 sherdil2022 5 5/29/2025, 12:06:20 AM
I have used most of the ones out there already but I hate the UI and UX of those. They are like they were built in the 90s and don't have much oomph.

I can build one (semi vibe-code actually) - but before I do wanted to find out if there are any modern (optionally mobile friendly - since I know small screens and family trees don't mix).

Comments (5)

drekipus · 1d ago
I would actually love for something like this.

I thought about making my own version, one where I could upload photos and videos, so that I could cross-reference.

"Look here's aunty Mel with uncle Roy. This was back in 1992, so it must have been in Brisbane" etc.

I have a complicated family history; immigration, DoCS, siblings put up for adoption, step parents with their own family tree, etc.

I have managed to retain some original photographs and letters, and would love to store them somewhere and begin to cross-reference them, so that I could see all the photos relating to one person, etc.

I've almost thought about getting some open source Facebook clone and using that.

(Edit: by coincidence, I just got a renewal reminder for the domain I bought for this project, maybe I'll kick the can for another year)

aristofun · 19h ago
Is it only UI that deters you from using known alternatives?

Or price, features, limitations?

sherdil2022 · 14h ago
That’s one major reason, along with collaboration, sharing, privacy and such. Most have 90s look and feel - which might mean no updates either.
aristofun · 12h ago
My heritage and ancestry seem both to regularly update their ui and featers. Not with a pace of a fancy startup of course, bit still good enough to trust them longterm.
sherdil2022 · 10h ago
Thank you.

Both MyHeritage and Ancestry seem neat. The UI is definitely polished and modern. Trying them out.

MyHeritage data entry seems to be little simpler compared to Ancestry. But will try both of them out.