Duolingo launches 148 AI-generated language courses

Duolingo has announced the launch of 148 new language courses—more than doubling its existing catalog—in what it calls the largest content expansion in its history. The rapid rollout, accomplished in under a year, was made possible by generative AI, which the company says drastically accelerated its content creation process.

“This launch makes Duolingo’s seven most popular non-English languages—Spanish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, and Mandarin—available to all 28 supported UI languages,” the company said, noting the update expands access for over a billion potential learners worldwide.

Traditionally, building a new course would take years. But by combining generative AI with internal tools and a system called “shared content,” Duolingo now creates a base course that can be efficiently customized across dozens of languages. Jessie Becker, Duolingo’s senior director of learning design, said AI allows the company to focus expert attention where it's most needed, while still maintaining high quality standards.

The announcement comes shortly after a controversial internal memo from CEO and cofounder Luis von Ahn, who outlined Duolingo’s shift to becoming an “AI-first” company. The memo stated the company would gradually phase out contractors whose work can be automated. AI usage will now influence hiring decisions and performance reviews, with new headcount only approved if tasks can't be automated.

“Our vision has always been to use technology to teach as well as a human tutor, and because of AI, that goal is within our reach for the first time ever,” said spokesperson Sam Dalsimer. He added that AI-driven content creation has been “game-changing,” enabling the company to scale in ways previously impossible.

While Duolingo insists that full-time staffing remains unaffected and any contractor changes will be made case-by-case, the announcement has sparked negative reactions among users and some employees. Critics worry that AI reliance could compromise content quality and lead to job displacement.

Nonetheless, Duolingo maintains confidence in its AI systems, which it says are regularly tested and aligned with international language proficiency standards. For now, the company is forging ahead—betting that speed, scalability, and AI-driven efficiency will shape the future of language learning.