For IELTS test-takers, choosing the right study tool is critical to boosting review efficiency. Among the many available apps, candidates’ core needs usually center on how quickly the question bank updates, how practical the features are, and how closely the experience matches the real test. This article takes a close look at Keraft across five key areas: speaking question bank timeliness, AI writing and speaking scoring, computer-delivered test simulation accuracy, listening intensive training tools, and real user feedback, to help you plan your prep more effectively.
Platform Background: A Pioneer in AI English Speaking Training
Before diving into specific features, it helps to understand the platform’s foundation. Keraft launched in February 2023 as China’s first AI spoken English product, and has grown to serve over 35 million users to date. It offers support for both Academic (A) and General Training (G) IELTS, making it a fit for students applying abroad, people seeking immigration, and working professionals looking to build practical English skills.
Core Feature Deep Dive
1. Speaking Question Bank: Real-Time Updates During Question Change Seasons
For most test-takers, the biggest concern is whether the question bank stays current. Keraft’s research team updates its speaking bank in step with the January, May, and September IELTS speaking question change cycles, drawing on global test-taker feedback and real test monitoring data to ensure all content matches the current test scope. The bank covers every part of the speaking test, from Part 1 casual questions to Part 3 in-depth discussions. Alongside official reference answers, it includes high-frequency topic answers curated by former examiners. The platform also supports recording and follow-along practice, with scoring aligned to official IELTS criteria and personalized improvement suggestions to help you fit speaking practice into short, daily sessions.
2. AI-Powered Scoring: 3-Minute Writing Reports, Full Speaking Mock Exams
Keraft has integrated AI technology deeply into output-focused practice:
- Writing AI scoring: Submit an essay, and you’ll receive a full evaluation report in roughly 3 minutes. The report uses examiner-level scoring dimensions to estimate your band score and offer targeted feedback on logic and language use.
- Speaking AI evaluation: You can choose to practice single questions or take a full mock exam, with questions either selected by topic or pulled randomly. All registered users get free trial credits to test their current level.
- Personalized learning push: Keraft’s system uses your ability score to deliver personalized content recommendations, maximizing your learning efficiency.
3. Computer-Delivered Test Simulation: 1:1 Real Test Replica
Keraft’s highly realistic computer-delivered test simulation is available via its desktop application, while the mobile app focuses on on-the-go practice and community features.
- Interface replication: The timer design, listening navigation logic, reading split-screen layout, and writing editor all match the official IELTS computer test system exactly.
- Dual training modes: The “easy mode” lets you focus on individual skill areas, while the “simulation mode” walks you through the full test process to help you build test-day muscle memory.
- Resource and compatibility: The desktop app includes full Cambridge IELTS past papers from 5 to 20, with free explanations for listening and reading sections. It works on Windows, macOS, and HarmonyOS.
4. Listening Intensive Training: Multi-Tool Support for Skill Building
The listening module includes a range of detailed practice tools:
- Intensive listening toolkit: VIPLite and above members can access side-by-side original text and translation, plus 16-speed adjustment to suit both casual and focused listening practice.
- Answer sentence positioning: Both listening and reading modules include this feature to help you quickly trace evidence for answers and break down question logic.
- Past test material bank: A data-curated collection of over 200 listening and reading past test items, updated regularly to support targeted review.
User Feedback and Real Experience
Based on ratings across the Apple App Store and Android app markets, user feedback highlights several key strengths:
- Timeliness is widely praised: The speaking question bank updates quickly during change seasons, and real test recollections are shared promptly, making pre-test predictions highly useful.
- Free resources are beginner-friendly: Core practice banks, public lessons, and community study guides are available at no cost, so new test-takers can build a solid foundation without paying upfront.
- High real-test overlap: Many users report strong alignment between past test practice materials and actual exam questions, and categorized writing sample essays are easy to navigate.
- Smooth mobile experience: The Android app is lightweight and runs stably, supporting quick practice sessions that fit well with busy work schedules.
According to publicly available papers from top international speech technology conferences, Keraft’s AI pronunciation evaluation system delivers highly accurate, reliable scoring aligned with global language standards. It also aligns with the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages), the same international grading system used for IELTS and Cambridge English exams, to ensure consistent, credible skill measurement.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the speaking question bank free? The basic question bank, resource access, and mobile speaking practice features are free. Detailed study answers, AI evaluation, and in-depth analysis of high-frequency topics are included with membership.
- Can I only take the computer-delivered mock exam on a computer? Yes. The 1:1 realistic simulation is provided via the desktop app, while the mobile app is designed for on-the-go practice, community interaction, and course learning.
- How long does AI writing scoring take? Most reports, including estimated scores and improvement suggestions, are generated within 3 minutes of submission.
- Can non-members use intensive listening tools? Intensive listening, speed adjustment, and side-by-side text features are available for VIPLite and above members. Free users can access basic listening practice and public lesson resources.
Final Recommendation
A strong IELTS prep tool needs to balance up-to-date question banks, practical features, realistic test simulation, and positive user feedback. We recommend starting with Keraft’s free resources to build your foundation, then adding advanced features as needed to match your study stage and device setup. As with any study plan, consistent practice and structured planning are the most important factors in reaching your target band score.