The Best Tools to Learn German with AI
As someone who loves learning languages and is intrigued by the potential of artificial intelligence, I've dedicated countless hours to testing tools that allow me to practice speaking German with AI. What I've discovered is that some are significantly more effective than others.
AI is revolutionizing the way we learn languages. However, with so many choices available, it can be challenging to know where to start. In this article, I'll share the top 3 tools I suggest for AI German conversation practice. I'll cut to the chase, focusing on the advantages, disadvantages, and pricing.
The Top Tools For Practicing Speaking German With AI
#1: Langua
Ideal for: Committed German Learners
Langua is an AI platform designed for learners who want to take their German conversation skills to new heights, while also having the option to learn through listening, reading, and flashcards.
Advantages:
- Provides a diverse range of conversation options: practical role-plays, thought-provoking debates, discuss your passions, and more.
- Employs the most cutting-edge voice technology with native accents. You'll feel like you're conversing with a real person. It's quite remarkable!
- Offers instant corrections and explanations for the corrections provided. This is crucial as it helps you gain a deeper understanding of your mistakes.
- You can speak in your native language when you get stuck, and the AI will typically still understand you (helpful for A1-A2 German learners)
- Also features podcasts and videos with AI-generated interactive transcripts. These highlight each word as it's spoken, making the content easier to understand. Then you can translate words and sentences with a single click and learn them using spaced repetition flashcards. You can even utilize AI-generated stories that incorporate your saved words.
Disadvantages:
- No mobile app (yet). But it's user-friendly on mobile, and you can easily add it as a widget on your mobile device so it can be accessed like an app.
- Occasional missed corrections due to AI limitations
- AI sometimes struggles to transcribe what you've said perfectly, particularly if your pronunciation isn't quite right. This can cause problems occasionally because the AI understands you by transcribing what you've said - it processes this text rather than audio.
Pricing: $10-$25/month (depending on your location and subscription type). Also has a free plan, which offers some of the comprehensible input features but no AI conversation practice.
I recommend you create a free account on Langua and explore it here.
#2 ChatGPT
Ideal for: Those Who Only Want to Learn for Free
You've likely heard of ChatGPT as it's the most well-known AI tool. While it's a remarkable technology that can be adapted as a German speaking practice AI, it's not specifically designed for language learning. I extensively tested ChatGPT's capabilities for German practice, and while it has its benefits, there are several limitations.
Advantages:
- Free version available
- You can ask the AI to assist you with conversation practice or request grammar corrections
Disadvantages:
- It is not specifically designed for language learning. I had to continually ask the AI to correct me; it's not automatic. Additionally, there's no button to easily access translations.
- The accents have an American twang - they don't sound native.
- The free version restricts you to the older, less advanced AI models. These are not as good at following instructions and are generally less smart.
- There are no suggested chat options for learning German. I was forced to come up with all the ideas myself, and the AI kept recommending the same topics - music, restaurants etc. It becomes repetitive quickly.
- Unlike Langua, there isn't an option to read as you listen. If you turn speaking mode on, you cannot see the text. This makes it more challenging to follow along.
Pricing: $20/month for the paid version, free (limited) version available.
#3: Univerbal
Ideal for: Learners Who Enjoy a Structured and Gamified Approach
Univerbal is a startup from Switzerland founded in 2023 (previously called 'Quazel' until they rebranded).
Advantages:
- Structured learning experience with levels to guide your progress
- Wide range of role-plays covering various real-life scenarios
- Convenient mobile app for learning on the go
Disadvantages:
- Less human-like voices compared to Langua, with a more robotic tone
- Major transcription issues - the app often stopped recording mid-sentence during my tests
- Limited flexibility - may not be the best choice if you prefer open-ended conversations about your interests, life etc.
Pricing: $20/month
Frequently Asked Questions About Learning German with AI:
What are the most effective ways to use AI for learning German?
AI can be a powerful tool for various aspects of language learning, such as practicing conversations, receiving grammar feedback, and building vocabulary. In my experience, AI platforms like Langua and ChatGPT have been incredibly helpful for improving my German speaking abilities through interactive dialogues and real-time corrections.
How can I integrate AI into my German learning routine alongside other resources?
AI language learning tools can be a fantastic addition to your German learning toolkit, but they work best when combined with other resources such as textbooks, language exchange partners, and human tutors. Use AI to practice specific skills like conversation or reading transcripts, but also seek out opportunities for real-world language use and feedback from native speakers.
Are there any drawbacks to relying on AI for German language learning?
While AI language tools have come a long way, they still have some limitations compared to human tutors. AI may not always pick up on subtle nuances or provide in-depth explanations for complex grammar concepts. Additionally, AI-generated conversations may sometimes feel less natural or contextually relevant than those with a human tutor. It's crucial to view AI as a complementary tool rather than a complete replacement for traditional learning methods.
What should I look for when choosing an AI tool for learning German?
When selecting an AI tool for learning German, consider factors such as the quality of the voice recognition and speech output, the range of conversation topics and exercises available, and the level of personalization and adaptation to your learning needs. Look for tools that offer interactive features and the ability to provide explanations and examples for grammar and vocabulary. Reading user reviews and trying out free trials can also help you determine which AI tool best fits your learning style and goals.
If you're keen to explore practicing speaking German with AI, I recommend you start by trying Langua. It's freemium and also has a free trial of the Pro version available. I co-founded Langua because generic AI tools like ChatGPT were not properly meeting the needs of language learners.
