Differences from iKana 1.x

iKana 2 is significantly redesigned from earlier versions and we've made the decision to consolidate or drop certain features to provide a better overall experience:

Customisable kana sets

iKana no longer features customisable kana sets. We felt this feature added unnecessary complexity to iKana and was no longer needed. Instead you can now simply build a practice set by ‘rubber stamping' characters in the kana browser. To study kanji we recommend using our dedicated kanji study tool called iKanji.

Speed Recognition Test

The Speed Recognition Test is now built directly into the Kana Practice tool. We've also made it slightly more challenging by asking you to both convert from rōmaji to hiragana and vice versa at random throughout the test.

Vocabulary Practice

We have completely redesigned the vocabulary learning side of iKana. The focus is now on a spaced repetition training system rather than using flash cards and romanisation test. While it's no longer possible to add custom vocabulary we have expanded the set of included vocabulary to contain the majority of common words needed for studying basic level Japanese.

iKana now contains several useful prebuilt vocabulary lists to work through in addition to allowing you to build a custom practice set.

The switch from Modified Hepburn

iKana 2 has switched to the more standardised Hepburn romanisation system which employs macrons (lines above characters) to indicate long vowel sounds. We made this decision as it's no longer required that you type in romanised words in any of the tests. More information on romanisation.

Fullscreen and Apple Remote

We decided to remove these features as few customers ever reported using them.

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