OVERVIEW.
Project Overview
wrds is a minimalist, word-based language learning app built entirely in SwiftUI. Designed for learners who prefer focus over gamification, it takes a vocabulary-first approach to fluency with 330 bite-sized lessons of 15 words each, guiding users toward mastery of 4,000 to 5,000 words. With support for Spanish, Italian, Norwegian, and French, wrds delivers a calm, visually immersive learning experience that feels effortless and engaging.
What We Did
SwiftUI-Only Architecture
Developed a fully native iOS application using SwiftUI as the sole framework, without relying on UIKit or external dependencies. The codebase emphasizes declarative UI design, native state management, and smooth animations optimized for performance across devices.
Vocabulary-Centric Learning Engine
Implemented a structured progression of 330 lessons, each introducing 15 new words. Every fifth lesson dynamically generates contextual phrases using words from previous sessions to reinforce comprehension and recall. Integrated spaced-repetition logic to surface random review words from completed lessons.
Immersive Visual and Interaction Design
Created a serene, painterly design system using custom gradient backgrounds such as sand, pompen, blue, and green themes. Lessons transition through soft animations and fluid gestures, giving users a tactile, meditative flow. The interface prioritizes minimalism with typography, motion, and color carrying the experience.
Progression, Practice and Rewards
Integrated persistent progress tracking, lesson unlocks, and practice modes that resurface random past words for memory retention. Introduced badges and achievements as subtle motivation elements while maintaining the product’s calm aesthetic.
Continuous Expansion and User Delight
Delivered regular updates adding new lessons, backgrounds, and badge sets. Implemented in-app review prompts and feedback loops that helped maintain a consistent 5-star user rating.
Results
wrds stands as a focused, design-driven alternative to conventional language apps. It offers a fully native SwiftUI experience that makes daily practice intuitive and visually inspiring. Through its vocabulary-first learning model and artful interface, wrds transforms word learning into an enjoyable daily ritual. The result is a lightweight, scalable iOS product that users describe as super educational and fun, combining elegance, simplicity, and real language fluency.
