KanjiLens

Product Introduction

1. Definition: KanjiLens is a browser extension-based Japanese learning tool and manga translator that integrates optical character recognition (OCR), machine translation, and spaced repetition systems (SRS). It operates as an overlay on Japanese manga websites, providing real-time translations and learning aids.
2. Core Value Proposition: KanjiLens eliminates friction in Japanese immersion by enabling learners to read raw manga without disrupting their flow. It solves the "dictionary dependency" problem, allowing users to acquire vocabulary and kanji intuitively while consuming native content.

Main Features

1. Instant Kanji Lookup: Uses client-side OCR (Tesseract.js or similar) to detect kanji in manga panels. When users hover over text, the extension displays readings (hiragana/katakana), English meanings, and stroke-order diagrams via a JavaScript overlay.
2. One-Click Image Translation: Leverages machine learning APIs (e.g., Google Cloud Vision) to extract and translate text within images. Users click any manga panel to generate English translations while preserving original layout.
3. Integrated SRS: Automatically saves user-selected kanji/vocabulary to a flashcard deck. Employs an adjustable spaced repetition algorithm (Anki-style) with custom intervals for optimized long-term retention.
4. Right-Click Scanning: Context-menu integration scans user-highlighted text on any webpage, returning furigana, pitch accents, and example sentences via a pop-up widget.
5. Custom Mnemonics & Settings: Allows personalized memory aids for kanji and per-website configuration (e.g., toggle furigana density on NHK News vs. Shonen Jump).

Problems Solved

1. Pain Point: Breaks in immersion caused by manual dictionary searches during manga reading, leading to frustration and abandoned learning.
2. Target Audience:
   • Beginner/Lower-Intermediate Learners: JLPT N5-N3 students building foundational kanji knowledge.
   • Manga Enthusiasts: Self-learners consuming untranslated series like One Piece or Attack on Titan.
   • Immersion-Focused Learners: Users of AJATT (All Japanese All The Time) or Refold methods.
3. Use Cases:
   • Reading web manga on platforms like MangaDex with real-time vocabulary support.
   • Extracting unknown kanji from image-heavy novels or social media posts.
   • Reviewing SRS flashcards generated from encountered words during reading sessions.

Unique Advantages

1. Differentiation: Unlike bulk-translation tools (Google Translate) or static dictionaries (Jisho.org), KanjiLens embeds learning directly into the content consumption experience. Competitors like Yomichan lack integrated SRS and image OCR.
2. Key Innovation: Context-aware overlays that dynamically adapt to manga layouts without altering source code, combined with user-specific SRS tracking based on actual reading encounters.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Does KanjiLens work on all manga websites?
   KanjiLens supports most major manga platforms (e.g., MangaDex, Comico) and can be manually configured for niche sites via custom CSS/domain settings.
2. How accurate is the kanji recognition in scanned manga images?
   OCR accuracy exceeds 92% for clean digital manga but may vary with low-quality scans; users can manually correct errors via the dashboard.
3. Can I export flashcards to Anki or other SRS platforms?
   Yes, KanjiLens supports CSV export of saved vocabulary for integration with Anki, Wanikani, or custom decks.
4. Is KanjiLens free to use?
   A freemium model offers basic lookup/translation at no cost, while SRS features and advanced settings require a subscription ($5/month).
5. Does it slow down browser performance?
   Resource usage is optimized for Chromium browsers; processing occurs locally unless image translation requires cloud API calls.