Understanding AnkiMobile on iOS: A Guide to Effective Study Tools
AnkiMobile is a powerful study app using spaced repetition for effective learning. It supports large decks, syncs across devices, and offers deep customization.
How Flashrecall app helps you remember faster. It's free
What is AnkiMobile on iOS?
AnkiMobile is the official iOS app for the popular flashcard system Anki.
App Store
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Wikipedia
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Highlights:
It uses the same spaced repetition algorithms (SM2 / FSRS) as the desktop version.
App Store
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Supports large decks (even 100,000+ cards) and media (images, audio).
App Store
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Syncs with desktop or other devices via the free cloud service.
App Store
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One-time purchase on iOS (unlike many subscription apps).
Anki Forums
What you’ll likely like:
Professional grade tool, great if you already use Anki on desktop.
Flashrecall automatically keeps track and reminds you of the cards you don't remember well so you remember faster. Like this :
Deep customisation, strong algorithmic backbone, huge community and shared decks.
Works offline, supports heavy-duty study.
The downsides of AnkiMobile
The learning curve is steep: setting up note types, fields, card templates takes effort.
Anki Manual
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On iOS, despite purchase, some features like add-ons & full editing may be limited or require desktop.
App Store
Interface can feel technical and less “plug-and-go” compared to newer apps.
For casual users or those who just want to study quickly, the setup overhead may be more than they want.
Some users note fewer modern integrations (widgets, auto-reminders, simpler UI) compared to newer options.
Anki Forums
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Why Flashrecall might be a smarter alternative
If you want something smoother, faster to get started with, and still effective for memorisation — then Flashrecall has a lot going for it. Let’s compare:
What Flashrecall offers:
No heavy setup: Create flashcards by typing topics, uploading documents, or recording audio — less manual work.
Built-in spaced repetition + active recall: The app handles the scheduling; you focus on studying.
Modern UI and workflow: Easier for a student who wants to use the app rather than configure it.
Strong for mobile study: If you spend most of your time studying on your iPhone/iPad and don’t want to rely on desktop, Flashrecall is lightweight and focused.
AnkiMobile vs Flashrecall
| Feature | AnkiMobile (iOS) | Flashrecall |
|---|---|---|
| Setup time | High – requires configuring note types, templates, maybe desktop for setup | Low – quick card creation, fewer manual steps |
| Customisation | Very high – you can tweak almost everything | Moderate – less manual tweaking, more automation |
| Ideal for | Power users with large volumes and existing Anki workflow | Students who want fast start + strong retention without the setup |
| Mobile experience | Strong, but steeper learning curve & technical feel | More streamlined, mobile-first design |
| Best for | Already using Anki on desktop, want full control | Want simplicity, mobile study and good results quickly |
My verdict
If you’re already deep into Anki’s ecosystem (desktop, shared decks, heavy study load) and comfortable with configuration, AnkiMobile is excellent.
But if you just want to study more effectively with less fuss, then Flashrecall is probably the better choice for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Anki good for studying?
Anki is powerful but requires manual card creation and has a steep learning curve. Flashrecall offers AI-powered card generation from your notes, images, PDFs, and videos, making it faster and easier to create effective flashcards.
What's the fastest way to create flashcards?
Manually typing cards works but takes time. Many students now use AI generators that turn notes into flashcards instantly. Flashrecall does this automatically from text, images, or PDFs.
How do I start spaced repetition?
You can manually schedule your reviews, but most people use apps that automate this. Flashrecall uses built-in spaced repetition so you review cards at the perfect time.
What is active recall and how does it work?
Active recall is the process of actively retrieving information from memory rather than passively reviewing it. Flashrecall forces proper active recall by making you think before revealing answers, then uses spaced repetition to optimize your review schedule.
Related Articles
Research References
The information in this article is based on peer-reviewed research and established studies in cognitive psychology and learning science.
Cepeda, N. J., Pashler, H., Vul, E., Wixted, J. T., & Rohrer, D. (2006). Distributed practice in verbal recall tasks: A review and quantitative synthesis. Psychological Bulletin, 132(3), 354-380
Meta-analysis showing spaced repetition significantly improves long-term retention compared to massed practice
Carpenter, S. K., Cepeda, N. J., Rohrer, D., Kang, S. H., & Pashler, H. (2012). Using spacing to enhance diverse forms of learning: Review of recent research and implications for instruction. Educational Psychology Review, 24(3), 369-378
Review showing spacing effects work across different types of learning materials and contexts
Kang, S. H. (2016). Spaced repetition promotes efficient and effective learning: Policy implications for instruction. Policy Insights from the Behavioral and Brain Sciences, 3(1), 12-19
Policy review advocating for spaced repetition in educational settings based on extensive research evidence
Dunlosky, J., Rawson, K. A., Marsh, E. J., Nathan, M. J., & Willingham, D. T. (2013). Improving students' learning with effective learning techniques: Promising directions from cognitive and educational psychology. Psychological Science in the Public Interest, 14(1), 4-58
Comprehensive review ranking learning techniques, with practice testing and distributed practice rated as highly effective
Karpicke, J. D., & Roediger, H. L. (2008). The critical importance of retrieval for learning. Science, 319(5865), 966-968
Research demonstrating that active recall (retrieval practice) is more effective than re-reading for long-term learning
FlashRecall Team
FlashRecall Development Team
The FlashRecall Team is a group of working professionals and developers who are passionate about making effective study methods more accessible to students. We believe that evidence-based learning tec...
Credentials & Qualifications
- •Software Development
- •Product Development
- •User Experience Design
Areas of Expertise
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