Last updated: August 14, 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about scanning kanji, creating flashcards, privacy, purchases, and more.

Getting Started

What is KanjiSnap?

KanjiSnap turns your camera into a Japanese learning tool. Snap printed text, get instant OCR, tap words to see readings and meanings, and create flashcards in one tap.

Which devices and iOS versions are supported?

KanjiSnap runs on iPhone and iPad. Check the App Store product page for the current minimum iOS version and device compatibility.

Do I need an account?

No account is required. Your scans and flashcards live on your device unless you choose to export or back them up via Apple services.

No account Works offline On-device OCR

Scanning & OCR

How do I get the best OCR results?

Use good lighting, hold the camera steady, fill the frame with the text, and avoid glossy reflections. Printed text works best; handwriting varies by clarity.

Does it recognize vertical Japanese text?

Yes, KanjiSnap can read both horizontal and vertical layouts. Complex layouts (ruby, dense columns) may reduce accuracy.

Can I scan photos from my library?

Yes. Grant Photo Library access when prompted, then choose an image to analyze.

Does it support kana and romaji?

OCR recognizes kanji and kana. Results show readings; romaji display can be toggled where available.

Flashcards & Study

How do I create a flashcard from a scan?

After OCR, tap a word/kanji to open its entry, then tap Add to FlashCards. You can add notes to the generated flashcards.

Can I organize decks and track progress?

Yes. Create multiple decks, favorite items, and view progress stats such as review streaks and accuracy.

Is there audio and pitch accent?

Audio is available for many common words; entries may show pitch-accent patterns when data exists.

Can I export my data?

You can export selected decks to a file for backup or use in other tools. (Format options are shown in the export screen.)

Purchases

Is KanjiSnap free?

Yes. The free tier includes all features with ads. You can still create decks, study with SRS, and use dictionary lookups.

What is Premium (Remove Ads)?

Premium removes all ads—everything is faster with no interruptions.

Available as an in-app purchase. Pricing may vary by region.

How do rewarded ads work?

Rewarded ads are optional videos you can watch to get short-term perks (e.g., extra scans). You choose when to watch—core features still work without them.

How do I remove ads or upgrade?

Open Settings → Remove Ads and follow the steps.

How do I restore my Premium (Remove Ads)?

On a new device, open Settings → Restore Purchases while signed in with the same Apple ID used for the purchase.

Privacy & Data

Do my scans leave my device?

OCR runs on your device. We don't upload your images. If you export, back up, or sync via Apple services, those copies are governed by Apple's terms and your settings.

Do you sell personal data?

No. We don't sell personal data.

Where can I read the full policy?

See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.

Advertising

We show ads in KanjiSnap using Google AdMob, including optional rewarded ads. We do not sell personal data.

  • Personalized vs non-personalized: If you consent (and allow iOS App Tracking), AdMob may use device identifiers (e.g., IDFA), coarse location, and app interaction signals to personalize ads. Without consent/permission, we show non-personalized ads.
  • Your choices: You can change ad consent in the app (where available), reset your device's advertising ID, or purchase Premium to remove all ads and limits.
  • Data sources: AdMob may receive IP address, device info, ad impressions/clicks, and error logs to deliver and measure ads.

Learn more: Google's Advertising Policies.

Troubleshooting

The camera won't open or scan

Check Settings → Privacy & Security → Camera and ensure KanjiSnap is allowed. Force-quit and relaunch the app. Good lighting helps.

OCR accuracy is low

Move closer, align text flat, avoid glare, and try a sharper photo. For dense vertical text, scan smaller sections.

I lost my flashcards

If you uninstalled the app or changed devices without a backup, local data is removed. We recommend exporting important decks periodically.

Need More Help?

Couldn't find what you need? We're here to help with any questions about KanjiSnap.