I have tested over 30 applications to find out which AI application is best suited for language learning.
It is important to note that the purpose of this test is not to provide an in-depth analysis of each app, but to find out what is available on the market and to provide an overview. Reasons for exclusion could be that the site was confusing or that the app was not accessible in the first place, that the download did not work or that perhaps a credit card was required without the programme offering anything special that would have justified the expense.
All apps have basically the same functions.
Most apps rely on the chat function: an “intelligent system” can ask and answer questions. This works in the same way as ChatGPT and co.
Most programmes can also understand audio input and output audio. So you don’t have to write, but can actually speak and listen. The audio function was important to me, because the audio function ensures an authentic experience. If there was no audio function, that was a reason to exclude the app.
Different languages are offered, which may be at least partially useful for some. Most, of course, will only learn one or at most two languages.
Basically, it can be said that some apps offer a few more functions and have smaller extra features, but overall there are no big dramatic differences. There is no programme where I would say: Wow, this programme stands out.
- Immediately accessible without registration (with limitation)
- good chat function and audio function
- interesting pricing strategy
- free if you choose the most expensive package and practice daily
- different languages
- suitable for advanced learners to practise speaking
- very cheap compared to other programmes (3,34$ – 5$ / month)
- good AI and speech recognition
- interesting features like photo mode (you have to describe a picture), listening exercises, role-playing games
- two weeks free trial period
- subscription also possible without credit cards with Paypal
- limited version can be tested free of charge
- very clear design
- sentence suggestions in the native language (you don’t have the problem of not knowing what to say)
- learning process divided into topics that you have to “unlock” (like Duolingo)
- Not cheap
- Numerous setting options (language level, whether one is self-taught or takes part in a course)
- Vocabulary suggestions for the chat
- Numerous topics and possibility to choose your own
- Features such as picture description, flashcards, vocabulary trainer
- Clear design
- Price unclear
- unclear what limitations the test version offers
- Speech input did not work perfectly during the test and was somewhat slower
https://talkface.ai/ -App für Android und iOS
- Described as an English exam app, also offers other languages.
- Offers corrections and translations.
- Poor speech recognition on MacBook.
- Relies too much on translations as a tool, which I think is counterproductive.
- Not an outstanding app, would not use or recommend it.
- Big problem, price unclear (online source suggests about $7/month, unverified).
- No clear recommendation, privacy concerns as Chinese developer and unclear pricing policy (doesn’t seem trustworthy).
- Free of charge (daily limit)
- Interesting topics of conversation (therefore better motivation to talk)
- Programme structure very simple and spartanic
- suggestions for expressions and vocabulary
- the correction function is good for simple mistakes
- suitable for advanced speakers
- too complex language sentences
- does not correct prepositions or other linguistically more complex errors
- purchase version not cheap (approx. 15$ / month or 30$ / 3 months)
- Ingenious idea: conversations with an animated person for a realistic feel.
- App offers different language levels.
- Potential value of app could be higher for different users, e.g. children.
- Acceptable prices: 10 free minutes/day, $35/3 months for subscription. Annual subscription cheaper, but I would not recommend at this time.
- Disappointed with the hands-on experience on the MacBook.
- Conversations lack naturalness, AI talks too much.
- The quality of the animations is not good, the facial expressions look funny.
- The hands-free mode did not work on the MacBook.
- For grammatical enquiries, annoying theoretical explanations, not helpful.
- App in its current state neither entertaining nor useful.
- Not fun on MacBook, could be different on iPhone.
Unlikely I will use the app again, have tested others.
Idea is brilliant, potential for great improvement.
Mentioned in the list because it promises pronunciation training.
Similar concept to other apps.
The concept could be helpful for some.
- Price at $9/month as reasonable. Affordable compared to other programmes.
- Not personally tested as a credit card is required for the trial version. I am not a fan of giving credit card details and prefer PayPal.
App not personally tested as credit card required.
Included to support a single developer.
- Similar functionality to other apps.
- Currently reduced to $6/month.
- The character limit mentioned is not a big problem.
All in all, I think these apps are good for practising a language. However, they are primarily intended for people who are already advanced. For those who only need a chatbot with an audio function, the programmes mentioned will be good enough.
I speak foreign languages that I know moderately well to well and I speak a foreign language that I don’t know well. I have taken a test even with the language I don’t know well – the experience was disappointing and frustrating. The programmes offer too little structure: there are too few instructions and explanations. Some apps promise that you can learn grammar with them, but I’m not convinced. Many apps offer corrections. The explanations of grammar questions are too theoretical and the corrections are mostly limited to spelling corrections and similar superficial mistakes.
Some programmes can also make suggestions. In my opinion, this can be useful and expand the learner’s vocabulary.
I don’t think the platforms can replace a teacher. But they can be very useful, especially for advanced learners. But I can definitely imagine that in the future, when the platforms get better, when the AI can react emotionally, when we have animated people and characters showing real emotions and the AI makes the conversation seem human, the programs could become a real competition for teachers.
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