Highlights
- Duolingo expands AI-powered Video Call to Android, offering real-time practice with AI character, Lily.
- Five new languages added to the feature, enhancing its reach and diversity.
- New features such as conversation transcripts and expressive animations improve the learning experience.
Duolingo (NASDAQ:DUOL) has significantly expanded its AI-powered Video Call feature to Android devices and introduced five new languages for language learners. This feature, which is available to Duolingo Max subscribers, allows users to practice their language skills through real-time, interactive conversations with an AI character named Lily. The expansion brings Duolingo’s AI-driven language practice to a broader audience, making it more accessible for users on the Android platform.
In addition to the new platform availability, Duolingo has added five new languages to the Video Call feature. For iOS users, the feature now includes German, Italian, Portuguese, Japanese, and Korean. Android users will initially have access to English, Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, and Italian, with Japanese and Korean being added soon. This increase in language offerings further broadens the platform's reach and appeal to a more diverse group of learners.
The enhanced Video Call functionality includes several new features, such as expressive animations that make the AI character, Lily, more interactive and engaging. Additionally, conversation transcripts are provided to help users track their progress and improve their language skills. One of the standout functionalities of the new release is proactive engagement from Lily, who can initiate calls with users to practice and refine their language abilities. These improvements contribute to a more immersive and effective learning experience.
According to Duolingo CEO Luis von Ahn, the Video Call feature represents a breakthrough in language learning technology. It provides learners with a cost-effective alternative to traditional language tutoring, which often requires expensive private lessons or travel to immerse oneself in a foreign language environment. The AI-powered conversations make it easier for users to practice speaking and comprehension at their own pace and convenience.
Positive Aspects
The expansion of the AI-powered Video Call feature to Android users significantly increases Duolingo’s market reach, offering language learners on this platform an exciting new way to practice. The addition of five new languages expands the product’s versatility and makes it accessible to an even wider audience. With enhanced features like conversation transcripts and expressive animations, the user experience is further enriched, creating a more dynamic and interactive learning environment. Additionally, the ability to access affordable language practice via AI-powered calls provides a cost-effective alternative to traditional methods like tutoring and immersion.
Negative Aspects
Currently, the Video Call feature is only available to Duolingo Max subscribers, which could limit access for some users who do not wish to pay for a premium subscription. Additionally, some languages are not yet available to Android users, with Japanese and Korean being added in the near future.