AI has been under the hood of the world’s most downloaded education app for years: a homegrown machine-learning model, Birdbrain, anticipates how difficult exercises should be to keep users engaged. But generative AI—specifically, xf’s GPT-4—is moving Duolingo closer to its holy grail of replicating one-on-one tutoring. Duolingo Max, a new subscription tier launched in March, lets users practice scenario-based (e.g., a French café) conversation skills. Company founder and CEO Luis von Ahn says more advanced AI “will allow us to scale high-quality education to everyone in the world.” Daily active users grew 62% in the first quarter of 2023, compared with one year earlier.
More from TIME
A weekly newsletter featuring conversations with the world’s top CEOs, managers, and founders. Join the Leadership Brief.
- Taylor Swift Is TIME's 2023 Person of the Year
- Meet the Nation Builders
- Why Cell Phone Reception Is Getting Worse
- Column: It's Time to Scrap the Abraham Accords
- Israeli Family Celebrates Release of Hostage Grandmother
- In a New Movie, Beyoncé Finds Freedom
- The Top 100 Photos of 2023
- Want Weekly Recs on What to Watch, Read, and More? Sign Up for Worth Your Time