Discover the best literacy apps for adults!

THE adult literacy is a fundamental step toward restoring autonomy and dignity for many people. It's not just about learning to read and write, but about reconnecting with the world, accessing opportunities, understanding basic everyday information, and participating more actively in society. With busy lives, family responsibilities, and work, many adults find it difficult to attend in-person classes.

Why are adult literacy apps a great alternative?

They allow users to learn at their own pace, at their own pace, and anywhere with internet access. Many of these apps use playful and interactive methods, making the learning process more enjoyable. What's more, many also help build self-confidence, essential for those who, for a long time, lived with the frustration of not knowing how to read or write. Now, let's explore some of the best literacy apps for adults.

1# Magic Letter

Letra Mágica is one of the most recommended apps for adults taking their first steps toward literacy. It's lightweight, works even on older phones, and has a simple interface, making it easy to use for those unfamiliar with technology. The app focuses on word formation, letter and phoneme recognition, using illustrations, audio, and repetitive activities to help reinforce the content. Furthermore, it's an app that can be used without constant supervision, ideal for those learning independently.

2# Adult Literacy – IESDE

Developed by an educational institution, this app is aimed squarely at adults and covers not only reading and writing skills, but also aspects such as citizenship, history, and social values. With a more streamlined approach, it respects each student's learning pace and offers lessons divided into modules, with videos, texts, and practical activities. It's ideal for those who want a more structured program that simulates a course, but with the freedom to study at any time of the day.

3# Learning to Read and Write

This app was designed for people starting from scratch. It offers handwriting exercises, letter and word identification, reading simple phrases, and sentence formation. An interesting feature is the dictation option, where the app speaks a word and the user must write it correctly. This stimulates both listening and writing skills. The app is also very visual, with clear and colorful drawings that help associate sounds with images.

4# Reading and Counting – Literacy

Focused on functional literacy, Ler e Contar Brasil offers content contextualized with everyday situations. For example, users learn to read traffic signs, product names, simple forms, and much more. The idea is to prepare students to navigate urban environments such as banks, health clinics, and supermarkets on their own. In addition to teaching reading and writing, the app also covers basic math concepts, such as addition and subtraction, focusing on practical application.

5# Duolingo ABC

While Duolingo is known for teaching languages, Duolingo ABC is designed to teach reading and writing from the very beginning. Although aimed at children, many illiterate or semi-literate adults benefit from its simple and effective use. With interactive activities, fun narrations, and a focus on phonics, it helps develop the foundations of the alphabet and word construction. Because it's free and available in multiple languages, it's a gateway for those who are still shy about seeking formal schooling.

6# Khan Academy Kids

Another app initially designed for children, but which has worked very well for adults learning to read and write. Khan Academy Kids offers a playful and personalized experience, with stories, activities, and educational games that teach reading, writing, and logical reasoning. Because everything is narrated and illustrated, students can understand the challenges even without knowing how to read. The app is free, ad-free, and has a very active support community.

A new beginning, at your own pace

Adult literacy has never been so accessible. Thanks to educational apps, thousands of people are having the chance to transform their lives, without leaving home and respecting their limits. No matter your age or educational background: there's always time to start over. If you or someone close to you needs to take this step, start now by exploring one of these apps. Technology is here not to replace traditional education, but to add to and bring hope to those who still believe that learning can change everything.

See also: IA Brasil Movement trains 1 million in free AI

Published on June 27, 2025