If you’ve struggled with high school Spanish or stumbled through ordering a meal while abroad, you’re not alone. Despite more Americans reporting proficiency in a second language, many remain monolingual. Language learning apps have long sought to change this, with recent emphasis on leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) for more effective learning.
Apps like Duolingo utilize AI to offer diverse exercises and fundamental grammar lessons. Natulang, a novel AI-powered language-learning app, pioneers an entirely AI and audio-based curriculum, focusing on teaching speaking skills often neglected by other apps.
Language learning has evolved significantly in recent decades, moving away from cassette tapes and phrasebooks. Platforms like iTalki and Verbling connect users with affordable tutors, enabling language acquisition from phones or computers at minimal cost.
Adult learners increasingly turn to self-study methods, with online forums like Reddit’s r/LanguageLearning providing a supportive community for aspiring polyglots.
However, mastering natural spoken conversation remains a challenge for many learners not immersed in the language. Despite hours spent with textbooks and flashcards, fluency can elude them. For those lacking time, resources, or confidence to engage a human tutor, how can they effectively learn to converse in their new language?
Your Robot Language Tutor:
Exploring the AI Evolution in Language Learning Apps
Many popular apps have integrated speech synthesis, an AI technology that enhances robot voices to mimic human speech patterns and tone, while maintaining precise diction. However, each app has embraced the ongoing AI revolution differently.
For instance, Babbel has introduced a novel classroom program where users can schedule virtual language classes, similar to booking a yoga session. Memrise, which heavily incorporates video and audio of native speakers, has developed a language bot that engages in near-real-time chat with users, albeit with a slight delay. On the other end of the spectrum, Duolingo has implemented AI-enhanced learning as a third tier of its subscription model, a move accompanied by a reduction in contractor staff.
