If you search the App Store for a flashcard app, you'll quickly hit a wall of confusion. Anki is famous among medical students, language learners, and programmers for its spaced repetition algorithm. Yet when you try to download it on your phone, you might hesitate.
The short answer: Anki on iPhone is not free. While Anki is completely free on Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android, the official iOS app—called AnkiMobile Flashcards—costs a flat $24.99 as a one-time purchase. There is no subscription, but there is also no free tier or trial.
If dropping twenty-five bucks on a study tool feels steep, you aren't alone. Let's break down why it costs money, how you can use Anki on iOS without paying a cent, and which imposter apps to avoid.
Why is Anki free everywhere else but paid on iPhone?
It's easy to assume the iOS price tag is a cash grab, but the pricing model has historical roots. The core Anki desktop software is open-source and free, developed and maintained largely by Damien Elmes for nearly two decades.
Because Apple charges developer fees and iOS development requires dedicated resources, the creator priced the iOS app to sustain the entire ecosystem. Revenue from AnkiMobile directly funds the upkeep of Anki Desktop, the free Android app (AnkiDroid), and the AnkiWeb syncing infrastructure.
When you buy AnkiMobile, you aren't just paying for an app icon on your screen. You're funding the backend that keeps your desktop decks running for free.
How to use Anki on iPhone for free
You don't have to buy AnkiMobile to review your flashcards on your phone. If you want to keep your wallet closed, you have two legitimate workarounds.
Option 1: Use AnkiWeb in Safari
You can log into AnkiWeb using the Safari browser on your iPhone.
- The cost: Completely free.
- The catch: It requires an active internet connection, the interface is clunky on mobile screens, and it doesn't support offline study.
Option 2: The Desktop-First Workflow
Many students build their decks, edit cards, and manage heavy lifting on a free Windows or Mac laptop. They then sync their progress to AnkiWeb and only do quick reviews on their phone browser when away from their desk. It requires patience, but it works without spending money.
Beware of fake "Anki" apps in the App Store
If you browse the App Store, you will spot apps with names like AnkiApp or Anki Pro. They often feature similar color schemes or wording that suggests they're official.
They are not.
These third-party apps have zero affiliation with the official Anki project. More importantly:
- They use entirely different databases and will not sync with your official Anki desktop decks.
- Many rely on recurring monthly or annual subscriptions that end up costing more than AnkiMobile over time.
Always check the developer name before downloading. The official app is published by Anki Software, LLC. If the developer is anything else, it's a clone.
Is AnkiMobile worth the twenty-five dollars?
If you rely on spaced repetition daily for heavy academic workloads—like organic chemistry, bar exam prep, or fluent language acquisition—the official app pays for itself in convenience.
You get full offline access, automatic media caching, smooth gesture controls, and reliable syncing. Furthermore, a single purchase covers your iPhone and your iPad, and you can share it with family members via Apple's Family Sharing feature.
However, if you're a casual student who only reviews a few cards a week, skip the purchase. Stick to desktop or use the browser version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a refund if I don't like AnkiMobile?
Apple handles all App Store refunds. If you purchase the app and find it doesn't suit your workflow, you can request a refund through Apple Support within their standard return window.
Does buying AnkiMobile unlock an ad-free experience?
The official app has no ads to begin with. You're paying for the software client and supporting the open-source project, not paying to remove interruptions.
Do I have to pay again if I upgrade my iPhone?
No. Because it's tied to your Apple ID, you can redownload AnkiMobile for free on any new iOS device linked to your account. Go to your App Store purchase history to grab it without a second charge.
