spaced repetitionFSRS
FSRS vs SM-2: Why Your Flashcard App Is Using a 40-Year-Old Algorithm
SM-2 was written in 1987 on a DOS machine. FSRS was built with machine learning in 2022. Here's why that gap matters for your grades.
10 min read|
study smarter, not harder
AI Flashcards for Lasting Recall
Imprimo turns PDFs, URLs, and scans into AI flashcards, then schedules every review with FSRS so you remember more with fewer wasted reps.
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the difference matters
Why Imprimo?
Built from the ground up for students who demand more than a digital index card.
19FSRS weight parameters
9handcrafted themes
100%offline capable
4learning phases
FeatureImprimoOthers
AlgorithmFSRS v5 (2024)SM-2 (1987)
AI GenerationGemini-poweredManual only
Offline SupportFull offline-firstVaries (Anki yes, Quizlet no)
PrivacyEncrypted syncCloud-dependent
iOS ExperienceNative SwiftUIWeb wrapper / native
Add-on EcosystemLimited (new app)Thousands (Anki)
PriceSubscriptionFree (Anki desktop)
PDF & URL ImportGemini-poweredManual only
Anki ImportComing soonN/A
“Others” primarily refers to Anki and Quizlet. We're honest about where they beat us.
why imprimo
The calm, beautiful app with serious science underneath
Most flashcard apps are ugly inside. The beautiful ones don't have real spaced repetition. Imprimo is the only one that doesn't compromise.
Beautiful + Scientific
Anki has the algorithm. Quizlet has the users. But no one else has both a beautiful, calm UI AND FSRS — the most advanced scheduling algorithm available. Imprimo doesn't make you choose between aesthetics and science.
Native iOS, Not a Web Wrapper
Most competitors are web apps in a mobile shell. Imprimo is built native in SwiftUI — faster, smoother, works offline, integrates with iOS conventions, and respects your battery.
Your Data Stays on Your Device
No cloud dependency, no data mining. Your flashcards live on your device first. Syncing is opt-in and encrypted. Privacy isn't a feature — it's the default.
4-Phase Learning, Not Just Flashcards
Other apps flip cards. Imprimo builds understanding — Explore, Connect, Practice, Confirm. A structured path from first encounter to lasting memory, not just recognition cramming.
everything you need
Built for Serious Learners
Every feature is designed around cognitive science and the way your brain actually works.
FSRS Algorithm
Science-backed spaced repetition
Powered by FSRS v5, the most advanced open-source scheduling algorithm. Not the outdated SM-2 from 1987 -- real cognitive science.
AI-Powered Capture
Turn any content into flashcards
Upload PDFs, paste a URL, share text from any app, or scan documents. Gemini AI breaks down complex material into atomic, study-ready cards.
Offline-First
Study anywhere, anytime
Full functionality without internet. Your data lives on-device first, syncs seamlessly when you're back online. Zero compromises.
Learn Mode
4-phase active learning
Explore, Connect, Practice, Confirm. A structured learning flow that takes you from first encounter to deep understanding, not just recognition.
simple as 1-2-3
How It Works
From content to long-term memory in three mindful steps.
01
Capture
Share content from any app, upload PDFs, or scan documents. AI breaks it down into atomic flashcards instantly.
02
Learn
Four-phase active learning: Explore the concept, Connect the ideas, Practice active recall, then Confirm your mastery.
03
Review
FSRS schedules the optimal moment for each card. Swipe to rate, track your retention, and watch your knowledge grow.
make it yours
9 Handcrafted Themes
From calm paper whites to deep midnight blues. Each theme is carefully tuned for readability and focus.
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What People Are Saying
Beta testers from medical, law, and engineering programs.
“I was doing 300 Anki reviews a day and burning out. Switched to Imprimo, and my daily count dropped to about 200 with the same retention. The FSRS scheduling is legit.”
Sarah K.
MS3, Internal Medicine
“The AI card generation from my lecture PDFs saves me at least an hour of card-writing every week. The cards aren't perfect every time, but they're a solid starting point.”
James T.
2L, Contract Law
“I study on the subway with no signal. Offline-first actually means offline-first here. Everything just works, and it syncs when I get home.”
Priya M.
Engineering Undergrad
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