# Decodable Readers L3 Sample vs simPODD

The clearest difference is review sentiment: simPODD at 78% against Decodable Readers L3 Sample's 0%. simPODD also leads on update cadence (every 2 months vs every 15 months). Decodable Readers L3 Sample's advantage is in-app purchases (none vs 4) and device support (3 vs 1). On price and ads there is nothing between them.

Both are free to download. simPODD sells 4 in-app purchases, starting at $13.99 per month. Decodable Readers L3 Sample asks for nothing beyond the download.

Decodable Readers L3 Sample ships an update every 15 months, simPODD every 2 months. The most recent releases landed on October 2, 2026 and September 17, 2026 respectively.

## The numbers

| Metric | Decodable Readers L3 Sample | simPODD |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | — | **[4.5 (21 ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/simpodd/id1464489596/reviews)** |
| Number of ratings | — | **21** |
| Positive reviews | 0.0% of reviews | **77.8% of reviews** |
| In-app purchases | **No** | Yes |
| Ads | No | No |
| Update frequency | Every 15 months | **Every 2 months** |
| Monetization | **Free** | Free with in-app purchases |
| Size | 120 MB | 539 MB |
| Requires iOS | **10.2** | 17.0 |
| Devices | **iPhone, iPad, iPod** | iPad |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | [Decodable Readers Australia](https://appshunter.io/developer/1291420175) | [AssistiveWare](https://appshunter.io/developer/308368167) |

## What reviewers say

### Decodable Readers L3 Sample

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/decodable-readers-l3-sample/id1450470188)

This app offers a systematic approach to learning to read for children. It provides decodable books that only contain words made up of sounds a child has learned, progressing from simple to complex. Features include professional audio narration, word-by-word sound support, and pre-reading activities.

**Highlights:** Systematic sound progression, Decodable books with learned sounds, Professional audio narration, Tap-to-hear word support, Pre-reading activities, Australian themes and characters

**Features:** macOS Compatibility

**In-app purchases:** none


### simPODD

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/simpodd/id1464489596)

This app simplifies augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) for individuals who cannot speak. It integrates digital PODD page sets with a printing interface, offering streamlined editing and access to various vocabulary options. Designed in collaboration with the PODD system's creator, it aims to make communication more accessible and efficient.

**Highlights:** Digital PODD page sets, Integrated printing interface, Streamlined editing, SymbolStix integration, Multiple text-to-speech voices, Regionally specific vocabulary

**Features:** Family Sharing

**In-app purchases (4)**

| Purchase | Price | Billing |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Monthly Digital | $13.99 | per month |
| Yearly Digital + Print | $139.99 | per year |
| Yearly Digital + Print* | $139.99 | per year |
| One Year Digital | $139.99 | one-time |


## Frequently asked questions

### Is Decodable Readers L3 Sample free?

Decodable Readers L3 Sample is free to download, with no in-app purchases.

### Is simPODD free?

simPODD is free to download, with in-app purchases available.

### Do Decodable Readers L3 Sample or simPODD have ads?

Neither Decodable Readers L3 Sample nor simPODD shows ads.

### Which is updated more often, Decodable Readers L3 Sample or simPODD?

Decodable Readers L3 Sample ships an update every 15 months, and simPODD every 2 months. Most recently, Decodable Readers L3 Sample was updated on October 2, 2026 and simPODD on September 17, 2026.

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*Compared by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/) from daily US App Store data. Review summaries are generated from verbatim App Store reviews.*