Product Introduction
Kanaji is an iOS application designed specifically for learning Japanese kanji and kana characters through structured writing practice and vocabulary building. The app supports comprehensive character study across multiple proficiency levels with over 6000 kanji and kana characters available for mastery. It operates natively on Apple platforms including iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Vision devices requiring iOS 14 or later for optimal functionality. The core experience centers on stroke-order guided writing drills combined with flashcard-based vocabulary reinforcement.
The primary value proposition lies in its scientifically optimized Spaced Repetition System (SRS) that algorithmically schedules reviews based on individual memory performance to maximize long-term retention. This transforms traditional rote memorization into an efficient, data-driven learning process adaptable to each user's pace and retention patterns. By digitizing paper-based study methods, it enables eco-friendly, on-the-go practice with real-time stroke correction and progress tracking. The system's daily goal-setting and notification features further cultivate consistent study habits essential for language acquisition.
Main Features
The application offers stroke-order guided writing practice for all 6000+ kanji and kana characters with immediate visual feedback to ensure proper technique formation. Each character includes detailed breakdowns of radical components alongside multiple reading pronunciations (Onyomi/Kunyomi) and contextual vocabulary examples. The writing canvas dynamically validates stroke direction and sequence against standardized Japanese calligraphy rules. This feature is accessible across all Apple devices with seamless sync via iCloud.
An intelligent Spaced Repetition System (SRS) engine customizes review frequency based on user performance metrics and historical accuracy rates. The algorithm prioritizes characters marked as challenging while gradually extending intervals for mastered content according to cognitive retention curves. Users can configure daily new card limits (5-50 cards) and review thresholds to maintain sustainable learning momentum. Performance analytics track mastery percentages per JLPT level or school grade with heatmap visualizations.
The integrated dictionary supports radical-based lookup, meaning search, and vocabulary cross-referencing across all study materials. Search functionality includes English keyword filtering with reverse lookup capabilities for kanji components. Each dictionary entry displays frequency rankings, JLPT classification, and example sentences with audio playback. Offline access ensures constant availability during commutes or travel without internet connectivity.
Problems Solved
Kanaji eliminates inefficient paper-based kanji practice by providing immediate stroke correction and reducing physical resource waste through its digital writing interface. The app solves inconsistent self-study habits through its notification system and daily goal enforcement that maintains learning continuity. It directly addresses knowledge fragmentation by integrating writing drills, vocabulary flashcards, and dictionary functions within a unified workflow.
The primary user base includes JLPT exam candidates requiring structured kanji preparation aligned with official test levels (N5-N1). Secondary audiences encompass Japanese school students following the graded curriculum (Grade 1-6) and self-learners using Wanikani's leveling system. The app also serves calligraphy enthusiasts seeking proper stroke technique and travelers needing practical vocabulary acquisition.
Typical scenarios involve daily commute study sessions using iPhone touchscreen writing practice with SRS-generated reviews. Classroom integration sees teachers projecting iPad screens to demonstrate stroke order before assigning graded character sets. Exam preparers utilize JLPT-filtered kanji decks with intensive writing drills during study marathons. Heritage learners employ radical search to decode unfamiliar characters encountered in Japanese media.
Unique Advantages
Unlike competitors with subscription models, Kanaji offers a one-time Pro upgrade ($7.99) for permanent access to all features without recurring fees. The app uniquely combines Wanikani leveling, JLPT alignment, and school grade curricula in a single customizable system absent in single-path competitors. Cross-platform Apple ecosystem support (including Vision Pro) provides broader device compatibility than iOS-exclusive alternatives.
The proprietary SRS implementation incorporates writing accuracy metrics into its scheduling algorithm, weighting stroke precision equally with recall speed. Version 1.0.7 introduced meaning-based kanji search – a rare functionality outside dedicated dictionary apps. VisionOS support enables spatial learning environments where kanji practice overlays real-world contexts via Apple Vision Pro.
Competitive strengths include complete offline functionality for all core features unlike web-dependent alternatives. Privacy differentiation is achieved through zero data collection practices verified by Apple's App Store documentation. The 106MB lightweight package outperforms bulkier competitors in storage efficiency while maintaining extensive character databases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What devices support Kanaji? The application is compatible with iOS 14+ (iPhone/iPad), macOS 11+ (Apple Silicon Macs), and visionOS 1.0+ devices. It leverages native touch input for writing practice on iPhones/iPads, trackpad support on Macs, and spatial interaction on Apple Vision Pro. All versions synchronize progress through iCloud without requiring separate accounts.
Does Kanaji include kana learning? Yes, the app covers both hiragana and katakana syllabaries alongside kanji within integrated study decks. Kana sections include stroke diagrams, pronunciation guides, and vocabulary associations identical to kanji modules. Recent updates resolved kana-specific crashes (v1.1.2) and improved display scaling for kana flashcards.
How does the Spaced Repetition System work? The SRS algorithm tracks user accuracy during review sessions to calculate optimal reappearance intervals for each character. Correctly answered items reappear in exponentially longer intervals (1 day > 3 days > 1 week), while errors reset the cycle. Users can adjust SRS intensity through daily card limits and receive push notifications for pending reviews. Historical accuracy rates visible in statistics inform future scheduling.