- Duolingo introduces real-time AI video calls with character Lily for English, French, and Spanish practice.
- Expanded math and music courses, featuring practical life skills and popular tunes, aim to enhance user engagement and learning outcomes.
OUR TAKE
Language learning platform Duolingo has announced a new suite of features at its annual Duocon event, held on September 24, enhancing its interactive approach to language education. The company introduced real-time AI video calls and pop music integrations, aiming to make the learning experience more engaging and contemporary.
–Rebecca Xu, BTW reporter
What happened
Duolingo, the popular language learning app, made several exciting announcements at its annual Duocon event. One of the most attention-grabbing features unveiled was real-time AI video calls with the app’s signature character Lily. Users can now practice English, French, and Spanish with Lily, who responds in a grumpy but engaging manner.
The new AI feature allows Lily to remember conversations, recall past interactions, and teach users in a more dynamic and realistic way. This mirrors the experiences language learners would have in real-world interactions, making the learning process more immersive and effective.
In addition to the video call feature, Duolingo also announced expansions in its math and music courses. Math lessons now include practical life skills and interactive games, while the music section offers popular tunes from artists like Meghan Trainor and Pharrell Williams. Users can even purchase a miniature piano in the app’s signature green colour to enhance their musical lessons.
The event featured a conversation between Duolingo CEO Luis von Ahn and music legend Jon Batiste, who emphasised the importance of consistency in learning. Batiste shared how his early experiences with video games influenced his approach to music and encouraged users to stay dedicated to their language learning journey.
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Why it’s important
These new features are designed to make language learning more accessible and enjoyable, particularly for users who prefer interactive and multimedia-based learning methods. The introduction of video calls represents a significant step towards simulating real-life conversations, while the integration of pop music brings cultural relevance to language education.
Duolingo’s continuous innovation in language learning apps demonstrates the company’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance educational experiences. This approach not only helps users learn more effectively but also keeps Duolingo at the forefront of educational technology.
The announcements at Duocon showcase Duolingo’s commitment to providing engaging and effective language learning experiences for its millions of users worldwide. With new features like AI video calls and expanded course offerings, Duolingo continues to innovate and inspire language learners of all levels.
