Is PhET Simulations free?

PhET Simulations is a paid app. iOS: $0.99.

What are PhET Simulations's main features?

PhET Simulations's key features include Offline Play, Multilingual Support, Custom Favorites Collection, Automatic Updates. Standout differentiators: Offline Play, Multilingual Support.

Is PhET Simulations available on iOS and Android?

Yes, PhET Simulations is available on iOS (App Store).

PhET Simulations

University of Colorado Boulder

PhET Simulations

Name: PhET Simulations
Price: 0.99 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.5 (46 reviews)
Author: University of Colorado Boulder

v1.5.0

University of Colorado Boulder

46 ratings

App Store →

Education #50 ▼8

Report updated Apr 1, 2026

PhET Simulations

v1.5.0

University of Colorado Boulder

46 ratings

Students, teachers, and parents seeking high-quality, interactive science and math educational tools that function reliably in both classroom and remote environments.

App Store →

Education #50▼8

What Is PhET Simulations?

Launched Oct 5, 2016
Updated Oct 2024

PhET Simulations is an educational mobile application developed by the University of Colorado Boulder, designed to provide students, teachers, and parents with high-quality, interactive science and math simulations. By packaging over 75 HTML5 simulations into a single, offline-capable interface, the app serves as a portable laboratory for STEM learning. The app occupies a unique niche in the Education category, positioning itself as a mission-driven, academic resource rather than a commercial product. Its primary value proposition lies in its offline accessibility and academic credibility.

What does it look like?

What are the key features?

Offline PlayDifferentiator

Access over 75 HTML5 science and math simulations without an internet connection.

Multilingual SupportDifferentiator

App interface and simulations available in multiple languages to support bilingual learners.

Custom Favorites CollectionStandard

Allows users to bookmark and organize preferred simulations for quick access.

Automatic UpdatesStandard

Ensures users receive the latest HTML5 simulations as soon as they are released.

Fullscreen ModeBasic

Optimizes screen real estate for an immersive simulation experience.

What do users think? iIndependent intel reports to help builders create better apps or enhance existing ones. Still in beta, accuracy and relevancy get better every day. For informational purposes only.

Gathering public signals...

Sentiment analysis will be available once enough user reviews are collected.

How is it ranked?

Chart	Rank	Change
Paid	#50	▼8

No ranking data for this selection.

What are the pros and cons?

Pros

Strong academic brand equity and institutional backing
High-quality, peer-reviewed educational content
Low barrier to entry with a nominal one-time purchase fee
Robust offline functionality

Cons

Lack of accessibility features for students with disabilities
Limited social media presence and community engagement
No support for legacy Java or Flash-based simulations
Low review volume limits social proof

What is the market outlook?

Growth Opportunities

Expansion into accessibility features
Building a community-driven platform for teacher lesson plans
Integration with popular Learning Management Systems (LMS)

Market Threats

Free web-based alternatives
Declining visibility in App Store charts
Rapid changes in mobile OS standards

What are the key takeaways?

PhET Simulations is a divisive education app that is a paid app. With a 4.5/5 rating from 46 reviews, it receives mixed feedback from users.

Best for: Students, teachers, and parents seeking high-quality, interactive science and math educational tools that function reliably in both classroom and remote environments.

How much does it cost?

Model: paid

Tiers:

One-time purchase of $0.99

The app uses a low-cost, one-time purchase model to fund the continued development of open-source educational simulations, positioning it as a mission-driven product rather than a profit-maximized commercial tool.

iOS Version

1.5.0

Release Date

Oct 5, 2016

iOS Price

$0.99