Parents' Guide to

Hanx Writer

By Amanda Bindel, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 10+

Typewriter sounds with modern features mostly a novelty.

App iPad Free to try, Free Productivity
Hanx Writer Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this app.

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Upon opening HANX WRITER, kids will find a typed note from Tom Hanks explaining the inspiration behind the app. The letter closes with, "You already know how to work them," referencing typewriters, but that may not be true for most kids. They do know how to use an iPad, though, and that's close enough. The interface is totally intuitive, even though it looks like a typewriter. Kids can type on the touchscreen or use a Bluetooth keyboard. They won’t get the feel of a typewriter's keys, but they will experience the sounds of the clacking keys and clicking returns. Playing around with the typewriter will be a little fun, but the nostalgia will be lost on them, and they'll likely prefer to stick with more familiar and fully featured word-processing options.

App Details

  • Device: iPad
  • Subjects: Language & Reading: writing
  • Skills: Communication: multiple forms of expression, Tech Skills: using and applying technology, Health & Fitness: fine motor skills
  • Pricing structure: Free to try, Free (Hanx 707 Bundle is $2.99 -- additional typewriter that offers a different feel, background colors, and text alignment Hanx Golden Touch is $2.99 -- additional typewriter that offers a different feel, background colors, and text alignment Writer's Block Bundle is $4.99 -- adds both typewriter options )
  • Release date: August 14, 2014
  • Category: Productivity
  • Topics: History
  • Publisher: Hitcents.com, Inc.
  • Version: 1.0.2
  • Minimum software requirements: iOS 7.0 or later
  • Last updated: August 15, 2016

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