Pleco

Pleco: The Complete Chinese Dictionary, Document Reader, and Character Recognition Suite

Pleco integrates three core tools—a comprehensive dictionary, a document reading system, and a multi-mode character recognition engine—into a single mobile application for learners of Chinese. The free version delivers a built-in dictionary of over 13,000 individual words and 20,000 pinyin-annotated phrases. Additionally, users can install up to eight supplementary dictionaries at no cost, each with distinct lexical coverage, usage examples, and phonetic transcriptions.

Character Recognition Modes

• Drawing Input: Draw characters directly on the screen using a finger or stylus. Pleco identifies the strokes and returns the corresponding dictionary entry with definitions, stroke order, and pronunciation.
• Photo Recognition: Capture a photograph of printed or handwritten Chinese text. The app extracts and recognizes individual characters, then provides definitions and pinyin reading for each detected symbol.
• Optical Character Recognition (OCR): Use the live camera viewfinder to scan text in real time. The app overlays recognized characters with translations and phonetic guides without requiring a separate image capture.

Text-to-Speech Capabilities

• Select between male and female voice profiles for spoken output.
• The app reads aloud over 30,000 distinct words, including compound terms and multi-syllable entries.
• Extend text-to-speech to full phrases, sentences, or entire passages. Adjust playback speed and pitch to match comprehension level.

Document Reader Functionality

• Open and read Chinese-language documents directly within Pleco.
• Tap any character or phrase in the document to view its dictionary definition, pinyin, and example sentences.
• Highlight and save unknown vocabulary to custom flashcard lists for later review.

Additional Tools

• Built-in flashcards system with spaced repetition scheduling for vocabulary retention.
• Stroke order diagrams for all common characters, with animation and step-by-step breakdown.
• Pinyin input for searching words when you know the pronunciation but not the character.

• Search history and bookmark functionality for quick access to previously looked-up terms.

• Offline dictionary access—no internet connection required for core dictionary lookups.

• Customizable interface with dark mode, font size adjustment, and simplified/traditional character switching.
• Integrated clipboard reader: copy text from other apps and paste it into Pleco for instant translation.

Download the app immediately to access the full suite of dictionary, recognition, and reading tools. Get it now and start learning Chinese with a single, integrated application.

Technical Disclaimer: This app requires an internet connection for photo recognition, live OCR, and text-to-speech features. In-app purchases are available for additional dictionary packs, advanced OCR modules, and expanded flashcard functionality. Data usage may occur during voice generation and character recognition processes. Age rating: 4+. Compatible with iOS and Android devices running current operating system versions.