hourswithout

HoursWithout is a Chinese pronunciation practice app designed to help non-native speakers improve their listening and speaking skills. The app originated from the creation of a popular Chinese learning community WeChat group. After surveying over 20,000 WeChat group members, the developers found that many users struggled to accurately pronounce Chinese characters. This insight led to the development of HoursWithout, which launched in May 2018 for iOS and December 2018 for Android.

The app offers users a unique challenge. Upon launching the app, users are presented with a timer that counts down from a randomly selected number of hours, indicating how long they have to complete their daily practice. The duration can range from 1 hour to 14 hours. During this time, users must repeat a list of Chinese characters and their corresponding pronunciations. The app provides real-time feedback on pronunciation accuracy, tracking progress and providing a score after each practice session.

HoursWithout's algorithm selects words to practice based on the user's performance, focusing on areas where improvement is needed. This personalized approach enables users to gradually build their skills and build confidence in their pronunciation. Users can also set reminders and track their progress over time. While the app is primarily designed for Chinese language learners, it may also be beneficial for learners of other languages who struggle with pronunciation.

Reviews from users and language learning communities praise HoursWithout for its engaging design, effective learning approach, and motivation to consistent practice. The app's free version offers limited features, while the premium version expands on these features with additional tools and tracking capabilities.