Originally from a small town in the German countryside, Mark has come a long way in his 26 years. The young software developer first came to Japan as an exchange student at Oita University. He was struck by the beauty of the place and returned soon after completing his studies, eventually finding himself in Fukuoka. Mark is the creator of what many consider to be the finest Japanese-English dictionary application available on the iPhone and iPod touch, aptly named “Japanese”. An easy-to-use interface facilitates navigation of its multitude of innovative features. Since its release over a year ago, the application has garnered its inventor plenty of attention. A self-made man, then, Mark represents how far you can go with a good idea and a lot of hard work. And an iPhone, of course.

We discussed his work, his life in Fukuoka and some of the future projects he has up his sleeve.
How long have you been living in Fukuoka?
I used to rent an apartment in Oita city. I decided to move, but since I’m self-employed – not working for a Japanese company – and since Oita is such a small town, it became impossible to find an apartment there. So I chose the next biggest city, which is Fukuoka. That was June of 2009. Since then, I’ve really started to love Fukuoka.
How did you first get involved in making apps?
I was always interested in programming – I got my first computer at the age of eleven and started programming at the age of twelve. When I was an exchange student, I really needed an electronic dictionary. So, I went to all of the stores and looked for one, but they sucked so much. They are made by Japanese people for Japanese people. I needed something better, so I had a look and found this open source database on the internet, Jim Breen’s Japanese dictionary. I started making a Mac application – that was about four years ago – but it was just for me, during my studies.
Then, one day, I saw the very first iPod touch in an electronics department and I thought, “Oh my God – this is made for making an electronic dictionary.” I immediately bought one, hacked it (because at that time you didn’t have the software development kit) and the same day I started developing the application.
Is there a big market for “Japanese”?
Yes, there is. I have the coolest customers too – US marines, Harvard professors, all kinds of people. Every time I get an e-mail from a customer, I’m surprised by just the signature.
Some of the feedback I get is great too. I’ve had people tell me they bought an iPod touch just to use my program and it saved them money in the long run because electronic dictionaries are so expensive.
How is your own Japanese?
I get by. I can read about 700 different kanji. Since I focus so much on the application, I don’t really have the energy to study a lot.
What would you have done in a world without the iPhone or iPod touch?
Well, I originally started developing the dictionary on my Mac.
Will you ever release a Mac version?
I’m still working on it. I’m reworking it and I plan to release version 1.0 later this year.
Will there be a Windows version?
Never. People can just switch (laughs).
Finally, where do you like to hang out in Fukuoka?
Well, if people want to meet me, they can just come to my “office” – Starbucks in Akasaka.
Contact: mark@codefromtokyo.com or visit www.codefromtokyo.com

 

Japanese 2.1 Key Features

• Search functions
– Enter in romaji, English or kana
– Sentences entered are broken down into constituent parts
– Conveniently search by conjugation
• Automatically displays all conjugated forms of verbs and adjectives

• Stroke order videos for over 3,200 kanji including hiragana, katakana and all daily-use kanji

• All entries include contextual examples in Japanese and English with reading aids

• Input kanji by components

• Want to get back to the search menu quickly? Just give your gadget a shake!

• Create and send vocabulary lists

• Flashcard function to aid study

• JLPT section:
– Vocabulary lists tailored to suit each level
– Countdown to the next test

• Kanji stored by grade level

• Words are classified into 170 different lists (e.g. sport, medicine, economics)

• Browse function – flick through, just like a paper version

• Customizable color settings

 

 

 

 

ドイツの小さな町で生まれ育ったマーク。彼の人生26年の間で故郷から遠く離れた地で過ごすことになろうとは誰が想像しただろうか。交換留学生として初めて日本を訪れたマークは、留学先の大分の土地柄をとても気に入り、ドイツにいったん帰ってすぐに日本に戻り、ここ福岡を探し当てたのだそう。今やiPhoneで最も優れた和英辞典だと評判の高いアプリ「Japanese」を1年以上前にリリースした彼は、現在もバージョンアップに力を注いでいる。フリーランスのアプリ開発者として既に成功を収めている彼が、今後も優れたアイデアと惜しみない努力でどれだけの功績を上げれるかに注目したい。マークへの問い合わせは、mark@codefromtokyo.com またはwww.codefromtokyo.comをチェック！

 

 

 

 

Originally from a small town in the German countryside, Mark has come a long way in his 26 years. The young software developer first came to Japan as an exchange student at Oita University. He was struck by the beauty of the place and returned soon after completing his studies, eventually finding himself in Fukuoka. Mark is the creator of what many consider to be the finest Japanese-English dictionary application available on the iPhone and iPod touch, aptly named “Japanese”. An easy-to-use interface facilitates navigation of its multitude of innovative features. Since its release over a year ago, the application has garnered its inventor plenty of attention. A self-made man, then, Mark represents how far you can go with a good idea and a lot of hard work. And an iPhone, of course.

We discussed his work, his life in Fukuoka and some of the future projects he has up his sleeve.
How long have you been living in Fukuoka?
I used to rent an apartment in Oita city. I decided to move, but since I’m self-employed – not working for a Japanese company – and since Oita is such a small town, it became impossible to find an apartment there. So I chose the next biggest city, which is Fukuoka. That was June of 2009. Since then, I’ve really started to love Fukuoka.
How did you first get involved in making apps?
I was always interested in programming – I got my first computer at the age of eleven and started programming at the age of twelve. When I was an exchange student, I really needed an electronic dictionary. So, I went to all of the stores and looked for one, but they sucked so much. They are made by Japanese people for Japanese people. I needed something better, so I had a look and found this open source database on the internet, Jim Breen’s Japanese dictionary. I started making a Mac application – that was about four years ago – but it was just for me, during my studies.
Then, one day, I saw the very first iPod touch in an electronics department and I thought, “Oh my God – this is made for making an electronic dictionary.” I immediately bought one, hacked it (because at that time you didn’t have the software development kit) and the same day I started developing the application.
Is there a big market for “Japanese”?
Yes, there is. I have the coolest customers too – US marines, Harvard professors, all kinds of people. Every time I get an e-mail from a customer, I’m surprised by just the signature.
Some of the feedback I get is great too. I’ve had people tell me they bought an iPod touch just to use my program and it saved them money in the long run because electronic dictionaries are so expensive.
How is your own Japanese?
I get by. I can read about 700 different kanji. Since I focus so much on the application, I don’t really have the energy to study a lot.
What would you have done in a world without the iPhone or iPod touch?
Well, I originally started developing the dictionary on my Mac.
Will you ever release a Mac version?
I’m still working on it. I’m reworking it and I plan to release version 1.0 later this year.
Will there be a Windows version?
Never. People can just switch (laughs).
Finally, where do you like to hang out in Fukuoka?
Well, if people want to meet me, they can just come to my “office” – Starbucks in Akasaka.
Contact: mark@codefromtokyo.com or visit www.codefromtokyo.com

 

Japanese 2.1 Key Features

• Search functions
– Enter in romaji, English or kana
– Sentences entered are broken down into constituent parts
– Conveniently search by conjugation
• Automatically displays all conjugated forms of verbs and adjectives

• Stroke order videos for over 3,200 kanji including hiragana, katakana and all daily-use kanji

• All entries include contextual examples in Japanese and English with reading aids

• Input kanji by components

• Want to get back to the search menu quickly? Just give your gadget a shake!

• Create and send vocabulary lists

• Flashcard function to aid study

• JLPT section:
– Vocabulary lists tailored to suit each level
– Countdown to the next test

• Kanji stored by grade level

• Words are classified into 170 different lists (e.g. sport, medicine, economics)

• Browse function – flick through, just like a paper version

• Customizable color settings

 

 

 

 

Originally from a small town in the German countryside, Mark has come a long way in his 26 years. The young software developer first came to Japan as an exchange student at Oita University. He was struck by the beauty of the place and returned soon after completing his studies, eventually finding himself in Fukuoka. Mark is the creator of what many consider to be the finest Japanese-English dictionary application available on the iPhone and iPod touch, aptly named “Japanese”. An easy-to-use interface facilitates navigation of its multitude of innovative features. Since its release over a year ago, the application has garnered its inventor plenty of attention. A self-made man, then, Mark represents how far you can go with a good idea and a lot of hard work. And an iPhone, of course.

We discussed his work, his life in Fukuoka and some of the future projects he has up his sleeve.
How long have you been living in Fukuoka?
I used to rent an apartment in Oita city. I decided to move, but since I’m self-employed – not working for a Japanese company – and since Oita is such a small town, it became impossible to find an apartment there. So I chose the next biggest city, which is Fukuoka. That was June of 2009. Since then, I’ve really started to love Fukuoka.
How did you first get involved in making apps?
I was always interested in programming – I got my first computer at the age of eleven and started programming at the age of twelve. When I was an exchange student, I really needed an electronic dictionary. So, I went to all of the stores and looked for one, but they sucked so much. They are made by Japanese people for Japanese people. I needed something better, so I had a look and found this open source database on the internet, Jim Breen’s Japanese dictionary. I started making a Mac application – that was about four years ago – but it was just for me, during my studies.
Then, one day, I saw the very first iPod touch in an electronics department and I thought, “Oh my God – this is made for making an electronic dictionary.” I immediately bought one, hacked it (because at that time you didn’t have the software development kit) and the same day I started developing the application.
Is there a big market for “Japanese”?
Yes, there is. I have the coolest customers too – US marines, Harvard professors, all kinds of people. Every time I get an e-mail from a customer, I’m surprised by just the signature.
Some of the feedback I get is great too. I’ve had people tell me they bought an iPod touch just to use my program and it saved them money in the long run because electronic dictionaries are so expensive.
How is your own Japanese?
I get by. I can read about 700 different kanji. Since I focus so much on the application, I don’t really have the energy to study a lot.
What would you have done in a world without the iPhone or iPod touch?
Well, I originally started developing the dictionary on my Mac.
Will you ever release a Mac version?
I’m still working on it. I’m reworking it and I plan to release version 1.0 later this year.
Will there be a Windows version?
Never. People can just switch (laughs).
Finally, where do you like to hang out in Fukuoka?
Well, if people want to meet me, they can just come to my “office” – Starbucks in Akasaka.
Contact: mark@codefromtokyo.com or visit www.codefromtokyo.com

 

Japanese 2.1 Key Features

• Search functions
– Enter in romaji, English or kana
– Sentences entered are broken down into constituent parts
– Conveniently search by conjugation
• Automatically displays all conjugated forms of verbs and adjectives

• Stroke order videos for over 3,200 kanji including hiragana, katakana and all daily-use kanji

• All entries include contextual examples in Japanese and English with reading aids

• Input kanji by components

• Want to get back to the search menu quickly? Just give your gadget a shake!

• Create and send vocabulary lists

• Flashcard function to aid study

• JLPT section:
– Vocabulary lists tailored to suit each level
– Countdown to the next test

• Kanji stored by grade level

• Words are classified into 170 different lists (e.g. sport, medicine, economics)

• Browse function – flick through, just like a paper version

• Customizable color settings

 

 

 

 

Originally from a small town in the German countryside, Mark has come a long way in his 26 years. The young software developer first came to Japan as an exchange student at Oita University. He was struck by the beauty of the place and returned soon after completing his studies, eventually finding himself in Fukuoka. Mark is the creator of what many consider to be the finest Japanese-English dictionary application available on the iPhone and iPod touch, aptly named “Japanese”. An easy-to-use interface facilitates navigation of its multitude of innovative features. Since its release over a year ago, the application has garnered its inventor plenty of attention. A self-made man, then, Mark represents how far you can go with a good idea and a lot of hard work. And an iPhone, of course.

We discussed his work, his life in Fukuoka and some of the future projects he has up his sleeve.
How long have you been living in Fukuoka?
I used to rent an apartment in Oita city. I decided to move, but since I’m self-employed – not working for a Japanese company – and since Oita is such a small town, it became impossible to find an apartment there. So I chose the next biggest city, which is Fukuoka. That was June of 2009. Since then, I’ve really started to love Fukuoka.
How did you first get involved in making apps?
I was always interested in programming – I got my first computer at the age of eleven and started programming at the age of twelve. When I was an exchange student, I really needed an electronic dictionary. So, I went to all of the stores and looked for one, but they sucked so much. They are made by Japanese people for Japanese people. I needed something better, so I had a look and found this open source database on the internet, Jim Breen’s Japanese dictionary. I started making a Mac application – that was about four years ago – but it was just for me, during my studies.
Then, one day, I saw the very first iPod touch in an electronics department and I thought, “Oh my God – this is made for making an electronic dictionary.” I immediately bought one, hacked it (because at that time you didn’t have the software development kit) and the same day I started developing the application.
Is there a big market for “Japanese”?
Yes, there is. I have the coolest customers too – US marines, Harvard professors, all kinds of people. Every time I get an e-mail from a customer, I’m surprised by just the signature.
Some of the feedback I get is great too. I’ve had people tell me they bought an iPod touch just to use my program and it saved them money in the long run because electronic dictionaries are so expensive.
How is your own Japanese?
I get by. I can read about 700 different kanji. Since I focus so much on the application, I don’t really have the energy to study a lot.
What would you have done in a world without the iPhone or iPod touch?
Well, I originally started developing the dictionary on my Mac.
Will you ever release a Mac version?
I’m still working on it. I’m reworking it and I plan to release version 1.0 later this year.
Will there be a Windows version?
Never. People can just switch (laughs).
Finally, where do you like to hang out in Fukuoka?
Well, if people want to meet me, they can just come to my “office” – Starbucks in Akasaka.
Contact: mark@codefromtokyo.com or visit www.codefromtokyo.com

 

Japanese 2.1 Key Features

• Search functions
– Enter in romaji, English or kana
– Sentences entered are broken down into constituent parts
– Conveniently search by conjugation
• Automatically displays all conjugated forms of verbs and adjectives

• Stroke order videos for over 3,200 kanji including hiragana, katakana and all daily-use kanji

• All entries include contextual examples in Japanese and English with reading aids

• Input kanji by components

• Want to get back to the search menu quickly? Just give your gadget a shake!

• Create and send vocabulary lists

• Flashcard function to aid study

• JLPT section:
– Vocabulary lists tailored to suit each level
– Countdown to the next test

• Kanji stored by grade level

• Words are classified into 170 different lists (e.g. sport, medicine, economics)

• Browse function – flick through, just like a paper version

• Customizable color settings

 

 

 

 

Originally from a small town in the German countryside, Mark has come a long way in his 26 years. The young software developer first came to Japan as an exchange student at Oita University. He was struck by the beauty of the place and returned soon after completing his studies, eventually finding himself in Fukuoka. Mark is the creator of what many consider to be the finest Japanese-English dictionary application available on the iPhone and iPod touch, aptly named “Japanese”. An easy-to-use interface facilitates navigation of its multitude of innovative features. Since its release over a year ago, the application has garnered its inventor plenty of attention. A self-made man, then, Mark represents how far you can go with a good idea and a lot of hard work. And an iPhone, of course.

We discussed his work, his life in Fukuoka and some of the future projects he has up his sleeve.
How long have you been living in Fukuoka?
I used to rent an apartment in Oita city. I decided to move, but since I’m self-employed – not working for a Japanese company – and since Oita is such a small town, it became impossible to find an apartment there. So I chose the next biggest city, which is Fukuoka. That was June of 2009. Since then, I’ve really started to love Fukuoka.
How did you first get involved in making apps?
I was always interested in programming – I got my first computer at the age of eleven and started programming at the age of twelve. When I was an exchange student, I really needed an electronic dictionary. So, I went to all of the stores and looked for one, but they sucked so much. They are made by Japanese people for Japanese people. I needed something better, so I had a look and found this open source database on the internet, Jim Breen’s Japanese dictionary. I started making a Mac application – that was about four years ago – but it was just for me, during my studies.
Then, one day, I saw the very first iPod touch in an electronics department and I thought, “Oh my God – this is made for making an electronic dictionary.” I immediately bought one, hacked it (because at that time you didn’t have the software development kit) and the same day I started developing the application.
Is there a big market for “Japanese”?
Yes, there is. I have the coolest customers too – US marines, Harvard professors, all kinds of people. Every time I get an e-mail from a customer, I’m surprised by just the signature.
Some of the feedback I get is great too. I’ve had people tell me they bought an iPod touch just to use my program and it saved them money in the long run because electronic dictionaries are so expensive.
How is your own Japanese?
I get by. I can read about 700 different kanji. Since I focus so much on the application, I don’t really have the energy to study a lot.
What would you have done in a world without the iPhone or iPod touch?
Well, I originally started developing the dictionary on my Mac.
Will you ever release a Mac version?
I’m still working on it. I’m reworking it and I plan to release version 1.0 later this year.
Will there be a Windows version?
Never. People can just switch (laughs).
Finally, where do you like to hang out in Fukuoka?
Well, if people want to meet me, they can just come to my “office” – Starbucks in Akasaka.
Contact: mark@codefromtokyo.com or visit www.codefromtokyo.com

 

Japanese 2.1 Key Features

• Search functions
– Enter in romaji, English or kana
– Sentences entered are broken down into constituent parts
– Conveniently search by conjugation
• Automatically displays all conjugated forms of verbs and adjectives

• Stroke order videos for over 3,200 kanji including hiragana, katakana and all daily-use kanji

• All entries include contextual examples in Japanese and English with reading aids

• Input kanji by components

• Want to get back to the search menu quickly? Just give your gadget a shake!

• Create and send vocabulary lists

• Flashcard function to aid study

• JLPT section:
– Vocabulary lists tailored to suit each level
– Countdown to the next test

• Kanji stored by grade level

• Words are classified into 170 different lists (e.g. sport, medicine, economics)

• Browse function – flick through, just like a paper version

• Customizable color settings

 

 

 

 

ドイツの小さな町で生まれ育ったマーク。彼の人生26年の間で故郷から遠く離れた地で過ごすことになろうとは誰が想像しただろうか。交換留学生として初めて日本を訪れたマークは、留学先の大分の土地柄をとても気に入り、ドイツにいったん帰ってすぐに日本に戻り、ここ福岡を探し当てたのだそう。今やiPhoneで最も優れた和英辞典だと評判の高いアプリ「Japanese」を1年以上前にリリースした彼は、現在もバージョンアップに力を注いでいる。フリーランスのアプリ開発者として既に成功を収めている彼が、今後も優れたアイデアと惜しみない努力でどれだけの功績を上げれるかに注目したい。マークへの問い合わせは、mark@codefromtokyo.com またはwww.codefromtokyo.comをチェック！

 

 

 

 

Originally from a small town in the German countryside, Mark has come a long way in his 26 years. The young software developer first came to Japan as an exchange student at Oita University. He was struck by the beauty of the place and returned soon after completing his studies, eventually finding himself in Fukuoka. Mark is the creator of what many consider to be the finest Japanese-English dictionary application available on the iPhone and iPod touch, aptly named “Japanese”. An easy-to-use interface facilitates navigation of its multitude of innovative features. Since its release over a year ago, the application has garnered its inventor plenty of attention. A self-made man, then, Mark represents how far you can go with a good idea and a lot of hard work. And an iPhone, of course.

We discussed his work, his life in Fukuoka and some of the future projects he has up his sleeve.
How long have you been living in Fukuoka?
I used to rent an apartment in Oita city. I decided to move, but since I’m self-employed – not working for a Japanese company – and since Oita is such a small town, it became impossible to find an apartment there. So I chose the next biggest city, which is Fukuoka. That was June of 2009. Since then, I’ve really started to love Fukuoka.
How did you first get involved in making apps?
I was always interested in programming – I got my first computer at the age of eleven and started programming at the age of twelve. When I was an exchange student, I really needed an electronic dictionary. So, I went to all of the stores and looked for one, but they sucked so much. They are made by Japanese people for Japanese people. I needed something better, so I had a look and found this open source database on the internet, Jim Breen’s Japanese dictionary. I started making a Mac application – that was about four years ago – but it was just for me, during my studies.
Then, one day, I saw the very first iPod touch in an electronics department and I thought, “Oh my God – this is made for making an electronic dictionary.” I immediately bought one, hacked it (because at that time you didn’t have the software development kit) and the same day I started developing the application.
Is there a big market for “Japanese”?
Yes, there is. I have the coolest customers too – US marines, Harvard professors, all kinds of people. Every time I get an e-mail from a customer, I’m surprised by just the signature.
Some of the feedback I get is great too. I’ve had people tell me they bought an iPod touch just to use my program and it saved them money in the long run because electronic dictionaries are so expensive.
How is your own Japanese?
I get by. I can read about 700 different kanji. Since I focus so much on the application, I don’t really have the energy to study a lot.
What would you have done in a world without the iPhone or iPod touch?
Well, I originally started developing the dictionary on my Mac.
Will you ever release a Mac version?
I’m still working on it. I’m reworking it and I plan to release version 1.0 later this year.
Will there be a Windows version?
Never. People can just switch (laughs).
Finally, where do you like to hang out in Fukuoka?
Well, if people want to meet me, they can just come to my “office” – Starbucks in Akasaka.
Contact: mark@codefromtokyo.com or visit www.codefromtokyo.com

 

Japanese 2.1 Key Features

• Search functions
– Enter in romaji, English or kana
– Sentences entered are broken down into constituent parts
– Conveniently search by conjugation
• Automatically displays all conjugated forms of verbs and adjectives

• Stroke order videos for over 3,200 kanji including hiragana, katakana and all daily-use kanji

• All entries include contextual examples in Japanese and English with reading aids

• Input kanji by components

• Want to get back to the search menu quickly? Just give your gadget a shake!

• Create and send vocabulary lists

• Flashcard function to aid study

• JLPT section:
– Vocabulary lists tailored to suit each level
– Countdown to the next test

• Kanji stored by grade level

• Words are classified into 170 different lists (e.g. sport, medicine, economics)

• Browse function – flick through, just like a paper version

• Customizable color settings

 

 

 

 

Originally from a small town in the German countryside, Mark has come a long way in his 26 years. The young software developer first came to Japan as an exchange student at Oita University. He was struck by the beauty of the place and returned soon after completing his studies, eventually finding himself in Fukuoka. Mark is the creator of what many consider to be the finest Japanese-English dictionary application available on the iPhone and iPod touch, aptly named “Japanese”. An easy-to-use interface facilitates navigation of its multitude of innovative features. Since its release over a year ago, the application has garnered its inventor plenty of attention. A self-made man, then, Mark represents how far you can go with a good idea and a lot of hard work. And an iPhone, of course.

We discussed his work, his life in Fukuoka and some of the future projects he has up his sleeve.
How long have you been living in Fukuoka?
I used to rent an apartment in Oita city. I decided to move, but since I’m self-employed – not working for a Japanese company – and since Oita is such a small town, it became impossible to find an apartment there. So I chose the next biggest city, which is Fukuoka. That was June of 2009. Since then, I’ve really started to love Fukuoka.
How did you first get involved in making apps?
I was always interested in programming – I got my first computer at the age of eleven and started programming at the age of twelve. When I was an exchange student, I really needed an electronic dictionary. So, I went to all of the stores and looked for one, but they sucked so much. They are made by Japanese people for Japanese people. I needed something better, so I had a look and found this open source database on the internet, Jim Breen’s Japanese dictionary. I started making a Mac application – that was about four years ago – but it was just for me, during my studies.
Then, one day, I saw the very first iPod touch in an electronics department and I thought, “Oh my God – this is made for making an electronic dictionary.” I immediately bought one, hacked it (because at that time you didn’t have the software development kit) and the same day I started developing the application.
Is there a big market for “Japanese”?
Yes, there is. I have the coolest customers too – US marines, Harvard professors, all kinds of people. Every time I get an e-mail from a customer, I’m surprised by just the signature.
Some of the feedback I get is great too. I’ve had people tell me they bought an iPod touch just to use my program and it saved them money in the long run because electronic dictionaries are so expensive.
How is your own Japanese?
I get by. I can read about 700 different kanji. Since I focus so much on the application, I don’t really have the energy to study a lot.
What would you have done in a world without the iPhone or iPod touch?
Well, I originally started developing the dictionary on my Mac.
Will you ever release a Mac version?
I’m still working on it. I’m reworking it and I plan to release version 1.0 later this year.
Will there be a Windows version?
Never. People can just switch (laughs).
Finally, where do you like to hang out in Fukuoka?
Well, if people want to meet me, they can just come to my “office” – Starbucks in Akasaka.
Contact: mark@codefromtokyo.com or visit www.codefromtokyo.com

 

Japanese 2.1 Key Features

• Search functions
– Enter in romaji, English or kana
– Sentences entered are broken down into constituent parts
– Conveniently search by conjugation
• Automatically displays all conjugated forms of verbs and adjectives

• Stroke order videos for over 3,200 kanji including hiragana, katakana and all daily-use kanji

• All entries include contextual examples in Japanese and English with reading aids

• Input kanji by components

• Want to get back to the search menu quickly? Just give your gadget a shake!

• Create and send vocabulary lists

• Flashcard function to aid study

• JLPT section:
– Vocabulary lists tailored to suit each level
– Countdown to the next test

• Kanji stored by grade level

• Words are classified into 170 different lists (e.g. sport, medicine, economics)

• Browse function – flick through, just like a paper version

• Customizable color settings

 

 

 

 

Originally from a small town in the German countryside, Mark has come a long way in his 26 years. The young software developer first came to Japan as an exchange student at Oita University. He was struck by the beauty of the place and returned soon after completing his studies, eventually finding himself in Fukuoka. Mark is the creator of what many consider to be the finest Japanese-English dictionary application available on the iPhone and iPod touch, aptly named “Japanese”. An easy-to-use interface facilitates navigation of its multitude of innovative features. Since its release over a year ago, the application has garnered its inventor plenty of attention. A self-made man, then, Mark represents how far you can go with a good idea and a lot of hard work. And an iPhone, of course.

We discussed his work, his life in Fukuoka and some of the future projects he has up his sleeve.
How long have you been living in Fukuoka?
I used to rent an apartment in Oita city. I decided to move, but since I’m self-employed – not working for a Japanese company – and since Oita is such a small town, it became impossible to find an apartment there. So I chose the next biggest city, which is Fukuoka. That was June of 2009. Since then, I’ve really started to love Fukuoka.
How did you first get involved in making apps?
I was always interested in programming – I got my first computer at the age of eleven and started programming at the age of twelve. When I was an exchange student, I really needed an electronic dictionary. So, I went to all of the stores and looked for one, but they sucked so much. They are made by Japanese people for Japanese people. I needed something better, so I had a look and found this open source database on the internet, Jim Breen’s Japanese dictionary. I started making a Mac application – that was about four years ago – but it was just for me, during my studies.
Then, one day, I saw the very first iPod touch in an electronics department and I thought, “Oh my God – this is made for making an electronic dictionary.” I immediately bought one, hacked it (because at that time you didn’t have the software development kit) and the same day I started developing the application.
Is there a big market for “Japanese”?
Yes, there is. I have the coolest customers too – US marines, Harvard professors, all kinds of people. Every time I get an e-mail from a customer, I’m surprised by just the signature.
Some of the feedback I get is great too. I’ve had people tell me they bought an iPod touch just to use my program and it saved them money in the long run because electronic dictionaries are so expensive.
How is your own Japanese?
I get by. I can read about 700 different kanji. Since I focus so much on the application, I don’t really have the energy to study a lot.
What would you have done in a world without the iPhone or iPod touch?
Well, I originally started developing the dictionary on my Mac.
Will you ever release a Mac version?
I’m still working on it. I’m reworking it and I plan to release version 1.0 later this year.
Will there be a Windows version?
Never. People can just switch (laughs).
Finally, where do you like to hang out in Fukuoka?
Well, if people want to meet me, they can just come to my “office” – Starbucks in Akasaka.
Contact: mark@codefromtokyo.com or visit www.codefromtokyo.com

 

Japanese 2.1 Key Features

• Search functions
– Enter in romaji, English or kana
– Sentences entered are broken down into constituent parts
– Conveniently search by conjugation
• Automatically displays all conjugated forms of verbs and adjectives

• Stroke order videos for over 3,200 kanji including hiragana, katakana and all daily-use kanji

• All entries include contextual examples in Japanese and English with reading aids

• Input kanji by components

• Want to get back to the search menu quickly? Just give your gadget a shake!

• Create and send vocabulary lists

• Flashcard function to aid study

• JLPT section:
– Vocabulary lists tailored to suit each level
– Countdown to the next test

• Kanji stored by grade level

• Words are classified into 170 different lists (e.g. sport, medicine, economics)

• Browse function – flick through, just like a paper version

• Customizable color settings

 

 

 

 

ドイツの小さな町で生まれ育ったマーク。彼の人生26年の間で故郷から遠く離れた地で過ごすことになろうとは誰が想像しただろうか。交換留学生として初めて日本を訪れたマークは、留学先の大分の土地柄をとても気に入り、ドイツにいったん帰ってすぐに日本に戻り、ここ福岡を探し当てたのだそう。今やiPhoneで最も優れた和英辞典だと評判の高いアプリ「Japanese」を1年以上前にリリースした彼は、現在もバージョンアップに力を注いでいる。フリーランスのアプリ開発者として既に成功を収めている彼が、今後も優れたアイデアと惜しみない努力でどれだけの功績を上げれるかに注目したい。マークへの問い合わせは、mark@codefromtokyo.com またはwww.codefromtokyo.comをチェック！

 

 

 

 

Originally from a small town in the German countryside, Mark has come a long way in his 26 years. The young software developer first came to Japan as an exchange student at Oita University. He was struck by the beauty of the place and returned soon after completing his studies, eventually finding himself in Fukuoka. Mark is the creator of what many consider to be the finest Japanese-English dictionary application available on the iPhone and iPod touch, aptly named “Japanese”. An easy-to-use interface facilitates navigation of its multitude of innovative features. Since its release over a year ago, the application has garnered its inventor plenty of attention. A self-made man, then, Mark represents how far you can go with a good idea and a lot of hard work. And an iPhone, of course.

We discussed his work, his life in Fukuoka and some of the future projects he has up his sleeve.
How long have you been living in Fukuoka?
I used to rent an apartment in Oita city. I decided to move, but since I’m self-employed – not working for a Japanese company – and since Oita is such a small town, it became impossible to find an apartment there. So I chose the next biggest city, which is Fukuoka. That was June of 2009. Since then, I’ve really started to love Fukuoka.
How did you first get involved in making apps?
I was always interested in programming – I got my first computer at the age of eleven and started programming at the age of twelve. When I was an exchange student, I really needed an electronic dictionary. So, I went to all of the stores and looked for one, but they sucked so much. They are made by Japanese people for Japanese people. I needed something better, so I had a look and found this open source database on the internet, Jim Breen’s Japanese dictionary. I started making a Mac application – that was about four years ago – but it was just for me, during my studies.
Then, one day, I saw the very first iPod touch in an electronics department and I thought, “Oh my God – this is made for making an electronic dictionary.” I immediately bought one, hacked it (because at that time you didn’t have the software development kit) and the same day I started developing the application.
Is there a big market for “Japanese”?
Yes, there is. I have the coolest customers too – US marines, Harvard professors, all kinds of people. Every time I get an e-mail from a customer, I’m surprised by just the signature.
Some of the feedback I get is great too. I’ve had people tell me they bought an iPod touch just to use my program and it saved them money in the long run because electronic dictionaries are so expensive.
How is your own Japanese?
I get by. I can read about 700 different kanji. Since I focus so much on the application, I don’t really have the energy to study a lot.
What would you have done in a world without the iPhone or iPod touch?
Well, I originally started developing the dictionary on my Mac.
Will you ever release a Mac version?
I’m still working on it. I’m reworking it and I plan to release version 1.0 later this year.
Will there be a Windows version?
Never. People can just switch (laughs).
Finally, where do you like to hang out in Fukuoka?
Well, if people want to meet me, they can just come to my “office” – Starbucks in Akasaka.
Contact: mark@codefromtokyo.com or visit www.codefromtokyo.com

 

Japanese 2.1 Key Features

• Search functions
– Enter in romaji, English or kana
– Sentences entered are broken down into constituent parts
– Conveniently search by conjugation
• Automatically displays all conjugated forms of verbs and adjectives

• Stroke order videos for over 3,200 kanji including hiragana, katakana and all daily-use kanji

• All entries include contextual examples in Japanese and English with reading aids

• Input kanji by components

• Want to get back to the search menu quickly? Just give your gadget a shake!

• Create and send vocabulary lists

• Flashcard function to aid study

• JLPT section:
– Vocabulary lists tailored to suit each level
– Countdown to the next test

• Kanji stored by grade level

• Words are classified into 170 different lists (e.g. sport, medicine, economics)

• Browse function – flick through, just like a paper version

• Customizable color settings

 

 

 

 

Originally from a small town in the German countryside, Mark has come a long way in his 26 years. The young software developer first came to Japan as an exchange student at Oita University. He was struck by the beauty of the place and returned soon after completing his studies, eventually finding himself in Fukuoka. Mark is the creator of what many consider to be the finest Japanese-English dictionary application available on the iPhone and iPod touch, aptly named “Japanese”. An easy-to-use interface facilitates navigation of its multitude of innovative features. Since its release over a year ago, the application has garnered its inventor plenty of attention. A self-made man, then, Mark represents how far you can go with a good idea and a lot of hard work. And an iPhone, of course.

We discussed his work, his life in Fukuoka and some of the future projects he has up his sleeve.
How long have you been living in Fukuoka?
I used to rent an apartment in Oita city. I decided to move, but since I’m self-employed – not working for a Japanese company – and since Oita is such a small town, it became impossible to find an apartment there. So I chose the next biggest city, which is Fukuoka. That was June of 2009. Since then, I’ve really started to love Fukuoka.
How did you first get involved in making apps?
I was always interested in programming – I got my first computer at the age of eleven and started programming at the age of twelve. When I was an exchange student, I really needed an electronic dictionary. So, I went to all of the stores and looked for one, but they sucked so much. They are made by Japanese people for Japanese people. I needed something better, so I had a look and found this open source database on the internet, Jim Breen’s Japanese dictionary. I started making a Mac application – that was about four years ago – but it was just for me, during my studies.
Then, one day, I saw the very first iPod touch in an electronics department and I thought, “Oh my God – this is made for making an electronic dictionary.” I immediately bought one, hacked it (because at that time you didn’t have the software development kit) and the same day I started developing the application.
Is there a big market for “Japanese”?
Yes, there is. I have the coolest customers too – US marines, Harvard professors, all kinds of people. Every time I get an e-mail from a customer, I’m surprised by just the signature.
Some of the feedback I get is great too. I’ve had people tell me they bought an iPod touch just to use my program and it saved them money in the long run because electronic dictionaries are so expensive.
How is your own Japanese?
I get by. I can read about 700 different kanji. Since I focus so much on the application, I don’t really have the energy to study a lot.
What would you have done in a world without the iPhone or iPod touch?
Well, I originally started developing the dictionary on my Mac.
Will you ever release a Mac version?
I’m still working on it. I’m reworking it and I plan to release version 1.0 later this year.
Will there be a Windows version?
Never. People can just switch (laughs).
Finally, where do you like to hang out in Fukuoka?
Well, if people want to meet me, they can just come to my “office” – Starbucks in Akasaka.
Contact: mark@codefromtokyo.com or visit www.codefromtokyo.com

 

Japanese 2.1 Key Features

• Search functions
– Enter in romaji, English or kana
– Sentences entered are broken down into constituent parts
– Conveniently search by conjugation
• Automatically displays all conjugated forms of verbs and adjectives

• Stroke order videos for over 3,200 kanji including hiragana, katakana and all daily-use kanji

• All entries include contextual examples in Japanese and English with reading aids

• Input kanji by components

• Want to get back to the search menu quickly? Just give your gadget a shake!

• Create and send vocabulary lists

• Flashcard function to aid study

• JLPT section:
– Vocabulary lists tailored to suit each level
– Countdown to the next test

• Kanji stored by grade level

• Words are classified into 170 different lists (e.g. sport, medicine, economics)

• Browse function – flick through, just like a paper version

• Customizable color settings