If any of you have inclination toward reading Chinese, then you probably are familiar with Pleco software. Yes, that is their logo on the iPhone app in the picture. No, it is not yet available. But, from participating in the beta-test I can tell you that if you have an iPhone in your pocket, and have some kind of relationship with the Chinese language, this application is going to rock your world.
Unlike the PDA versions, you use your finger to write directly on the screen. The word lookup is blinding fast and startlingly accurate. The handwriting input system is also smart enough to differentiate simple and traditional characters on the fly. While the initial release will not support flashcards, an update that does will not be far behind.
For a glimpse at the magic click here.
Oh man, that’s great. I’ve been waiting for this for a while – I heard it was in the works, but seems like it must be close… any idea when it’s going to be live? Thanks for sharing this with us!
Eric Grey
I can not really say as it is up to the folks at Pleco. There is also a process they have to go through with the Apple Store. That might take some time. It sounds rather “ma fan.”
For updates check out their website http://www.pleco.com
Can’t wait to see this. . . it will be very helpful ..
Z’ev Rosenberg
That is awesome!!
I am currently using the Qing Wen program on the Iphone which I am real happy with, but the Pleco version looks waayyyy better.
Looking forward to it. Thanks for sharing Michael.
Eran
I’ve been using this bad boy for about 3 weeks now. Wow, the handwriting recognition is terrific. I’m still learning my way around the interface, and miss the flashcards. But, I know the flashcard function will be working in the next update. IN the meantime, if you have an iPhone (or iPod touch) and you are interested in Chinese, this latest addition to the Pleco family of electronic dictionaries will be well worth your investment.
I’ve been using Pleco on Palm for the past 3 years in China. The program is beautiful. I’ve even taken to turning my notes into custom dictionary entries (not hard if you use excel, great for points, herbs, formulas, disease patterns, etc).
Plus, the company is basically owned and run by one guy with impeccable customer service and an obvious heart for the product.
I couldn’t recommend a product more.
Yes, Michael Love is THE man when it comes to making great software and giving genuine and thoughtful customer support. Pleco has made my learning Chinese much easier. He has done a great service to us westerners learning zhongguo hua. I can’t wait to write him a check for the iPhone version when it comes out!
Pat: I am very interested in hearing more about how you are using Pleco on Palm. That’s the version I have – I have also been using it for years but I never realised you could take notes on excel and transfer them on Pleco. Could you please give more details?
I know very little about computer technology but can follow instructions!
Paola- You might want to check out the forums at http://www.pleco.com. Lots of information there.
I used to use the Palm version, and had my Palm’s touch screen not flaked out I may well still be using it. Must say, the new iPhone/ipod version is quite nice!