What's the best AI language learning app in 2024?
Assuming you haven't been unplugged from the internet for the last year, you'll likely have heard of ChatGPT, one of the world's most advanced artificial intelligence (AI) tools.
Perhaps you've also seen YouTubers sharing ways of practicing your target language with ChatGPT. But it isn't specifically designed to be an AI language teacher. Because of this, it isn't the best tool for language learners.
In this 5-minute article, I'll share the best AI language learning apps, as well as quickly cover the limitations of ChatGPT for this use case (if you want to skip straight to the best language learning AI, click here).
What are the limitations of ChatGPT for language learning?
Over the last year, I've tested ChatGPT's capabilities for language practice extensively. Whilst the technology is incredible, for many reasons, it isn't the best platform for learning a language. Here's why:
- When you start conversing, ChatGPT will typically suggest a generic topic like music or food. Whilst these are fine, after a while you'll need more inspiration and ideas.
- When you make mistakes, ChatGPT won't correct you, unless you ask it to. In my experience, the tool would often forget to correct me, and I had to keep reminding it to do so.
- When replying, it often won't ask you a question to keep the conversation flowing. Or it will ask three questions at once - too many for someone learning a language! This can be improved with careful instructions, but these instructions are often forgotten after a certain number of messages.
- Most learners want to practice speaking and listening. Whilst the voice technology is far better than Alexa and other older tools, the accents in most languages don't sound native and instead have an American twang.
- When learning a language, the ability to read what you've just heard is extremely helpful. But if you turn on speaking mode, you cannot see the text. Nor can you click on words or sentences to see translations.
- The tool stops recording you when you’re mid-sentence because it switches off after just a second of silence.
Which is the best AI for language learning?
Given the limitations of ChatGPT highlighted above, if you're serious about learning a foreign language, it makes sense to use a tool that's specifically designed for this task. Below are my top 3 recommendations in order:
#1: Langua
Pros
- Conversations designed specifically for language learning. Before you start chatting, you'll see lots of interesting conversations to choose from, e.g. roleplays related to travel or integration, debate topics, discuss your day, etc.
- Langua leverages the world's most advanced voice technology. The characters sound almost human. Other AI language learning apps tend to sound more robotic. You can also choose your preferred dialect.
- See corrections instantly, or if you prefer, you can reveal them in one click.
- You can generate a detailed feedback report on your conversation.
- Click on words/sentences to see translations and usage examples.
- After you save words and phrases, you can learn them via spaced repetition flashcards, or go to the 'vocab' section in the chat tool. The AI will intelligently incorporate your saved words into the conversation. It's quite remarkable.
- Speak in your language when you're stuck - Langua's technology will usually be able to understand.
Cons
- There isn't an app (yet). But it works like one, just from your browser. It's easy to use on mobile, though if you use an Apple device, make sure it's on the latest iOS.
- Occasionally, the AI might miss a correction. This is a problem with all AI at present, as the technology isn't perfect.
- Like other conversation practice tools, it is not ideal for beginners. However, the team is releasing guided conversations for beginners shortly.
- Only 9 languages have been officially launched so far. As of August 2024, the available languages are Spanish, French, English, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish and Romanian. The conversation practice does seem to work in some other languages, so you may want to test yourself.
Pricing
There's a free plan, which allows you to view interactive transcripts, use flashcard packs, and quickly try the AI-powered conversation practice. There are 3 Pro plans, varying in price and features. All are available as a monthly or annual subscription - see pricing here. There's a 30-day guarantee, so you can try it and if it's not for you, get your money back easily.
You can create a free Langua account and explore it here.
Full disclosure: I co-founded Langua because generic AI tools like ChatGPT were not properly meeting the needs of language learners like me. For an independent opinion, below is a YouTube video by an English teacher and Spanish learner who tried several AI language learning apps. She briefly explains why she feels that Langua is the best option:
#2: Duolingo
Whilst Duolingo isn't specialised in AI language learning, in September 2024 it introduced two new AI-powered features.
The Video Call feature (which requires a $30/month 'Max' plan) enables users to converse with Lily, one of Duolingo's animated mascots. Additionally, 'Adventures' offers a simulation-style game that immerses users in lifelike scenarios (reminiscent of The Sims for those familiar with the classic game).
Pros
- Duolingo is a trusted brand, used by millions of learners around the world.
- The AI features are somewhat integrated with the rest of the Duolingo experience.
Cons
- The conversation practice tool is nowhere near as engaging and realistic as on Langua.
- Conversation practice still feels like something of an afterthought on Duolingo -the focus is still very much on simple games.
- Currently the calling mode is limited to a few languages (Spanish, French, English), and only available with the most expensive plan.
- Adventure mode is limited to English speakers learning French and Spanish speakers learning English.
Pricing
Duolingo Max costs $30/month at the time of writing. Not cheap!
#3: TalkPal
Whilst not as realistic or comprehensive as Langua, TalkPal is another option if you're looking for a conversational AI for language learning.
Pros
- It offers several options for chatting. In the paid version, you can choose a role play, have a debate about a particular topic, or describe images shown to you.
- There's an interesting pronunciation practice tool, however in my testing it was giving me positive feedback for making intentional errors.
- It's cheaper than some other options but this comes with disadvantages, as discussed below.
Cons
- The voices are somewhat robotic compared to the voices you'll hear on Langua.
- The questions are not the best. For example, below is the first question I received when starting a conversation (with my level set to basic). I'm asked what I'd consider to have been the most significant moment in human history, and why. I'd need to think a lot to answer this. It's not a good question for someone who is trying to learn a language.
- Limited ways to practice the new vocabulary you come across.
- Reviews on the Google Play store are mixed, with a rating of 3.9 out of 5 at the time of writing.
Pricing
$9.99/month. No free trial. There is a basic plan, but it has a 10-minute limit and doesn't give you access to many of the features.
Common questions related to the use of AI in language learning:
How can AI language tutors be used for learning?
Most AI language learning apps focus on conversation practice. They aim to simulate real-life conversations, whilst providing feedback, corrections and translations when needed. The best apps also include voice recognition technology in order to understand what you're saying. Certain tools, such as Langua, also use AI to transcribe podcasts and videos, allowing you to read and listen simultaneously. Other possibilities include the creation of simple stories that focus on your target vocabulary or favourite topics.
Can I use ChatGPT to learn a language?
Yes, you can use ChatGPT for language learning, however as mentioned in this article, it has limitations and you may want to explore AI tools that are specially designed for language learning. Nevertheless, ChatGPT is a good option for conversation practice, and can also give you corrections on your use of vocabulary and grammar. Note that it's knowledge of languages varies depending on its training data. Accuracy is not perfect for languages that are not amongst the most popular globally.
What's the best free AI for language learning?
It depends what you're looking for. If you're only looking for basic conversation practice, ChatGPT is going to be the best tool for you. If you're interested in getting AI transcripts to follow whilst listening to podcasts and videos, Langua is worth checking out (it also provides more powerful conversation practice, but this feature is not free). Keep in mind, the effectiveness of any AI language tool also depends on the user's commitment and regular practice.
What are the limitations of AI language tutors?
While advanced, AI language tutors may not fully replicate the nuances and complexities of natural human speech. The AI may not always correct grammar errors or offer the depth of feedback a human tutor could provide. AI language tutors also cannot compete with the feeling of human connection you get when speaking with natives. Lastly, you should avoid sharing sensitive information to protect your privacy, and check the companies' privacy policies.
AI is improving fast and can be a powerful tool for learners of Italian. However, it's essential to recognize the limitations of AI in language learning. While AI provides valuable conversation practice and feedback, it may lack the nuance and depth of explanations that a human tutor can offer. AI-generated conversations can sometimes feel unnatural or lack spontaneity.
To achieve the best results, I recommend using AI as a complementary tool alongside other resources and methods, such as language exchanges and tutoring sessions.
Curious to explore what AI can do for your ability to speak your target language? I encourage you to check out Langua here and create a free account.
