Duolingo, the highly acclaimed language learning app, recently announced two significant new features at its virtual Duocon event: Adventures mode and AI video calls. This move signifies a major step forward in Duolingo's efforts to enhance user learning experiences through advanced technology.
Luis von Ahn, co-founder and CEO of Duolingo, stated, "Our mission is to develop the best education in the world and make it universally accessible. These innovations are just the beginning of how we are leveraging technology to better serve our global community of learners."
Adventures mode: Integrating learning into gamified scenarios. Adventures mode introduces a gamified learning element to Duolingo. In this mode, users can explore various scenarios and storylines within the Duolingo universe, embarking on a language learning journey with characters like Lily and Oscar. This approach allows learners to apply their knowledge in simulated real-world situations, such as ordering at a café.
Currently, each course unit offers only one Adventures mode, available exclusively to English speakers learning French and Spanish speakers learning English. The feature is now live on iOS and Android devices.
AI video calls: Creating an immersive conversational environment. The AI video call feature aims to provide users with a realistic practice environment for conversations. Users will engage in real-time dialogues with Duolingo character Lily, requiring them to put their learned skills into practice. Duolingo notes that practicing dialogues in a low-pressure environment helps build confidence for real-world communication.
However, this feature is currently available only to Duolingo Max subscribers, with a monthly fee of $30 or an annual fee of $168. Additionally, AI video calls are supported for learners of English, Spanish, or French, with plans to expand soon to Portuguese, Italian, and German courses.
Duolingo music courses: Cross-industry collaboration for an electronic piano. In addition to the new language learning features, Duolingo announced a partnership with portable instrument manufacturer Loog to launch a three-octave electronic piano. This piano, designed specifically for Duolingo music courses, is now available for pre-order at $250.
The introduction of these new features and products showcases Duolingo's relentless efforts in innovating educational methods and expanding learning content. By integrating AI technology, gamification elements, and cross-industry collaborations, Duolingo is creating a more comprehensive, engaging, and effective learning experience for its users.