DuoLingo App: Duolingo is the world’s most popular and free language learning app. It was launched in 2012 and now has over 500 million users. The app is available on both mobile (Android and iOS) and computers. It teaches languages in a game-like way so that learning becomes fun and habit-forming.
Key features
- Quick and small lessons (Bite-sized Lessons): Each lesson is 5-10 minutes long. You can study a little every day.
- Gamification: Get XP points, streaks (continuous counting of daily learning), leaderboards, trophies and rewards.
- Skills covered: Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening.
- Path System: A long path (like a snake) appears in which each circle is a unit/level. Complete it.
- Energy System (Updated in 2025): Previously there were hearts, now there is energy (battery). Wrong answers reduce energy, correct answers increase it. It is full again in a day.
- AI Features (in Duolingo Max): Advanced AI tutors like Roleplay, Video Call and Explain My Answer are available (paid).
- Other Courses: Apart from languages, Math, Music and Chess can also be learned.
What languages can be learned?
- 40+ languages available such as: Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese
- Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Arabic, Hindi
- English (for people who speak other languages)
- Russian, Turkish, Dutch, Swedish, Greek, etc.
(Note: Gujarati is not yet available to learn on Duolingo, but there are courses for Gujarati speakers to learn English.)
How does the App work?
- Download the app (from Google Play or App Store).
- Create an account (with email/Google/Facebook).
- Choose the language you want to learn and your native language.
- Set a goal (how many minutes to study per day).
- Turn on notifications to remind you.
- Lessons include questions on: translation, listening and writing, speaking, word matching, etc.
- Correct answers increase points and streaks, incorrect answers decrease energy.
- Study daily to maintain your streak and stay motivated.
Free vs. Paid Version
- Free: Most features are free, but ads come and energy is limited.
- Super Duolingo (Paid): Ad-free, unlimited energy/hearts, mistake review, etc.
- Duolingo Max: With AI features (Roleplay, Video Call) – More advanced speaking practice.
Pros
- Completely free, great for beginners.
- Makes learning a habit every day.
- Scientifically designed – See improvement in 3 months.
- Fun and addictive.
Cons
- Not enough to become deeply fluent (good for basic to intermediate).
- Limited speaking practice (without Max).
- Sometimes feels repetitive.
Duolingo is the best for beginners if you want to learn a new language! Download link: Android: Search “Duolingo” on Google Play
iOS: “Duolingo” on the App Store
If you want to know more about a specific language, ask!