A powerful player in online language learning, Duolingo is shifting toward AI and ending the work of many contractors. But Google also wants its share of the pie.
Duolingo, a major player in online language learning, is embarking on a strategic shift by massively integrating artificial intelligence into its processes. This transition is reflected in the gradual replacement of contract employees with automated tools and the launch of 148 new AI-generated courses.
At the same time, Google is entering this market with “Little Language Lessons,” a suite of free apps that leverage AI to deliver a personalized learning experience. This shift demonstrates a significant shift in the field of online language education.
Duolingo adopts an “AI-first” strategy
Internal communication that breaks with the norm
“We will remain a company that cares deeply about its employees.” On April 29, 2025, Luis von Ahn, co-founder and CEO of Duolingo, announced in an internal message, shared simultaneously on LinkedIn by the group’s official account, that the company would now adopt an “AI-first” approach. This decision involves gradually reducing the use of contract workers, replaced by AI solutions capable of generating educational content at scale.
The communication, with its direct and pragmatic tone, contrasts with the company’s usually playful style. The CEO emphasized that this transition would require an overhaul of internal processes to fully leverage AI’s capabilities.
Rapid expansion of content thanks to AI
Following the announcement, Duolingo launched 148 new language courses, doubling its previous offering. This expansion, powered by generative AI and a shared content system, offers new lessons in 28 languages, including the seven most popular non-English languages: Spanish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, and Mandarin.
Primarily aimed at beginners (CEFR levels A1-A2), these courses incorporate immersive features, such as Stories for reading comprehension and DuoRadio for listening comprehension, and are now accessible to more users based on their origin. For example, European subscribers can now learn Japanese, Korean, or Mandarin through these lessons.
Duolingo expects this strategy to have positive financial repercussions. The company has raised its revenue forecast for 2025 and anticipates revenue of between $987 million and $996 million, up from previous estimates. This growth is attributed to the growing popularity of its Max plan, which incorporates AI-powered features.
Google Enters the Scene with Little Language Lessons
Three free and practical applications
But Duolingo isn’t the only company adopting this type of strategy. Indeed, with near-perfect timing, Google recently launched “Little Language Lessons,” a suite of three experimental apps that use AI to facilitate language learning. Developed within Google Labs and available for free on desktop and mobile browsers, these Gemini-powered apps aim to offer a more contextual and personalized learning experience. These include:
- Tiny Lesson: which offers vocabulary, phrases and grammar tips adapted to specific situations described by the user, such as “taking a taxi”, “the first date”…
- Slang Hang: which generates realistic conversations between native speakers to help learners acquire more natural and idiomatic vocabulary.
- Word Cam: which uses the smartphone camera to identify everyday objects and label them in the target language, to help enrich vocabulary.
How to access Little Language Lessons
To access Little Language Lessons, simply visit the platform via your desktop or mobile browser or download the app to your smartphone. Note: We couldn’t find the app directly on the Google Play Store, which doesn’t appear to be listed, but it was offered for download when using the browser version.
Next, you’ll need to sign in with a Google account to access all three apps. Then, choose the one you want to try and select the language you want to learn. Be aware: Google warns that these three apps are still in the experimental phase and, as always, AI can make mistakes!
