One of the most popular language learning apps, Duolingo, has recently been actively discussing and implementing changes related to artificial intelligence (AI). Following public statements by the company’s founder and CEO, Luis von Ahn, about AI and his vision of turning the company into an AI-focused organization, the announcement sparked some sharp reactions and criticism that the CEO himself did not expect.
Duolingo’s CEO Sparked Heated Discussions
Illustrative photo. Image source: Duolingo, Inc.
On April 28, a letter sent by the CEO to employees was published on Duolingo’s LinkedIn profile. In it, Luis von Ahn presented his future vision, which is closely tied to the goal of transforming the leading language learning app into an AI organization. This transition would eventually lead to the phasing out of contractors if AI can automate specific tasks.
This announcement did not receive applause. Users reacted with sarcasm and criticized the company for leaving people behind, with some stating they planned to cancel their subscriptions.
However, following this backlash, the CEO changed his stance — stating that AI would not replace employees or their work but would instead serve as a useful tool to help speed up tasks and improve quality.
Duolingo’s CEO Later Responded to the Reactions
In one of his recent interviews, Luis von Ahn admitted that the reaction to the post was unexpected and surprising. According to him, he did not anticipate such hostility but acknowledged that the information about AI integration may not have been clearly communicated.
On the other hand, he sees nothing wrong with this announcement, saying that all companies are making similar changes. Duolingo, in this case, remains open about sharing these developments. Still, it is acknowledged that a small portion of hourly workers will be let go after completing repetitive tasks that can be automated, while others will be offered different contracts.
Despite the Reactions, Duolingo Already Has AI Integrations
Regardless of how critically the company was received with this announcement, one thing is clear — AI will undoubtedly become a part of Duolingo’s operations, and we can already see changes, not yet in the workforce, but in the language learning app itself.
At the end of April, the company announced the launch of around 148 new language courses, marking the biggest content expansion in its history. This was made possible by generative AI, which enabled such progress in a single year, whereas the first 100 courses took about 12 years to develop.
Final Thoughts
On one hand, Duolingo will inevitably move toward AI development; on the other, this situation has shown that clarity for employees is essential during such transitions, and users still tend to view AI integration with scepticism. Naturally, this step may increase some users’ reluctance and lead to them abandoning the company’s services.
Nevertheless, it is also clear that AI brings more opportunities, flexible features, and personalized solutions for language learning app users, helping the company grow and move forward at a faster pace.
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