NihongoHover — Support
Last updated: 29 August 2026
NihongoHover is an offline macOS app that turns any Japanese text on your screen into an instant dictionary: hover over a word to see its reading and English definition, capture text in images with drag-to-OCR, and save words as flashcards. The app is currently in development and will be available on the Mac App Store. This page is the official support channel.
Email Zhongwen-Hover@pm.me
Please include your macOS version and Mac model. Most replies within 2 business days.
Frequently asked questions
When will NihongoHover be released?
The app is currently in App Store review and will be released on the Mac App Store soon. You can already try the interactive hover demo on the NihongoHover page; the main page lists the current status.
How does the hover dictionary work?
Move the pointer over Japanese text in almost any app and hold it still for a moment. A floating panel appears with the reading and English definitions. Move the pointer away to dismiss. NihongoHover is sandboxed and works without Accessibility or input-monitoring permissions — the only permission it ever asks for is Screen Recording, and only when you first use drag-to-OCR.
Does drag-to-OCR upload my screen?
No. When you drag a rectangle over Japanese text in an image, PDF or video, recognition runs on-device using Apple's Vision framework. The captured region never leaves your Mac and is discarded after the recognized text is returned.
Does the app need an internet connection or an account?
No. The dictionary and OCR are bundled and run locally. There is no account, no sign-in, and the app makes no network requests in normal operation.
Is NihongoHover a subscription?
No. It is a single one-time purchase on the Mac App Store. No ads, no subscriptions, no tracking.
How do I request a refund?
Refunds are handled by Apple. Visit reportaproblem.apple.com, sign in with your Apple ID, find the NihongoHover purchase, and choose "Request a refund."
What data does the app collect about me?
None. See the privacy policy for details.
What are the system requirements?
macOS 14 Sonoma or later, on Apple Silicon or Intel Macs. The app is sandboxed and requires no Accessibility or input-monitoring permission; Screen Recording permission is requested only the first time you use drag-to-OCR.
Still stuck?
Email Zhongwen-Hover@pm.me with a description of the issue and your macOS version + Mac model. Screenshots help.
NihongoHover is developed by Matthias Holl.