Duolingo AI Courses: 148 New Languages Launched

Duolingo Expands Language Offerings with AI-Generated Courses

Duolingo announced on Wednesday the introduction of 148 new language courses developed utilizing generative AI technology.

This expansion effectively doubles the platform’s existing course catalog, representing the most substantial content increase in Duolingo’s history.

Rapid Course Creation Enabled by AI

“The development of our initial 100 courses required approximately 12 years,” stated Luis von Ahn, co-founder and CEO of Duolingo, in a press release. “However, within just one year, we have successfully created and launched nearly 150 new courses.”

Von Ahn emphasized that this achievement demonstrates the direct benefits of generative AI for learners and highlights the impact of investments in AI and automation, enabling unprecedented scaling of both speed and quality.

Backlash Amidst AI Integration

Despite promoting its AI capabilities, Duolingo is currently facing criticism due to its plans to replace human contractors with AI and prioritize an “AI-first” approach.

Concerns have been raised by users who express disappointment regarding the company’s intention to utilize the technology to reduce its workforce and integrate it more deeply into the application itself.

Shift to AI-Driven Operations

In a recent email to staff on Monday, von Ahn communicated the company’s strategic shift towards AI.

He indicated that the use of contractors for tasks that can be automated by AI will be “gradually stopped,” and that new hires will only be considered if a team is unable to further automate their workload.

AI as a Catalyst for Mission Fulfillment

“AI is not merely a tool for increased productivity,” von Ahn explained. “It is instrumental in bringing us closer to our core mission.”

He further elaborated that creating a substantial amount of content is essential for effective teaching, and manual content creation does not scale efficiently.

Duolingo’s recent transition to an AI-powered content creation process has been described as a pivotal decision, accelerating the platform’s ability to expand its content offerings to a wider audience.

User Response and Concerns

Social media platforms have become a venue for users to voice their dissatisfaction with the company’s plans.

Some argue that the integration of AI is diminishing the app’s quality, resulting in inaccurate and substandard content, while others have chosen to delete the application and encourage others to do the same.

New Courses Focus on Beginner Levels

The newly launched language courses are primarily designed for beginner-level learners.

These courses incorporate features like Stories, aimed at enhancing reading comprehension, and DuoRadio, which focuses on improving listening skills.

Duolingo intends to introduce more advanced content in the months ahead.