Duolingo Rethinks AI Plans After User Pushback

Duolingo is changing its approach to AI integration after facing criticism from its users. The language-learning app had previously revealed intentions to become an “AI‑first” company, using AI for content creation and reducing its reliance on contract workers. A communication to Duolingo employees stated that increasing staff numbers would only occur if a team couldn't automate more of its work.

Many users voiced their concerns, with some questioning whether the company would rehire those previously laid off in favor of AI and others urging Duolingo to “Hire linguists. Stop using AI.”

New AI Courses

Following the initial announcement, Duolingo released 148 new courses developed using generative AI. These courses focused on providing more language options for non-English speakers, such as Japanese and Korean courses for Spanish speakers.

CEO's Statement

Duolingo CEO Luis von Ahn has since clarified the company’s stance. In a LinkedIn post, von Ahn stated that he does not envision AI replacing employees but rather as “a tool to accelerate what we do, at the same or better level of quality.” He added that the company is continuing to hire at the same rate as before.

Google also introduced AI into language education, applying its Google Gemini AI model to create three new tools called Little Language Lessons.