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Google has introduced a new AI-driven initiative designed to assist individuals in learning new languages, directly challenging Duolingo.

This week, Google Labs unveiled a collection of tools known as Little Language Experiments, powered by its Gemini AI model. The aim? To make language learning quicker, more intuitive, and significantly less formal.

The set features three concise tools:

• Tiny Lesson: Teaches practical phrases for everyday situations, such as asking for assistance at the airport or addressing a lost passport.
• Slang Hang: Generates realistic dialogue between native speakers, complete with hoverable slang terms and cultural insights.
• Word Cam: Utilizes your phone’s camera to identify objects and label them in the target language.

Little Language Lessons is a collection of bite-sized learning experiments built with the Gemini API – try it today → https://t.co/PBqHDKHGGk pic.twitter.com/Yu9mIRwEcM

— Google Labs (@GoogleLabs) April 29, 2025

All these tools are powered by Gemini, Google’s advanced multimodal large language model capable of processing text, images, and more. This technology also underpins various other AI features across Google Search, Workspace, and Android.

What’s Changing

Learning a new language goes beyond just memorizing vocabulary; it involves sounding authentic. This is precisely what Google aims to achieve.

Many platforms (including Duolingo) often leave learners overly formal or robotic. With the introduction of tools like Slang Hang, Google seeks to bridge the divide between textbook knowledge and real-world fluency.

In Google’s own words: “These experiments aren’t a replacement for traditional studying; they complement it by helping people build habits, maintain engagement, and integrate learning into daily life.”

Meanwhile, Duolingo is going all-in on AI:

• Recently announced 148 new AI-generated courses, nearly doubling its offerings.
• Replacing human contractors with AI “where it makes sense.”
• Utilizing generative AI for hiring processes and performance evaluations.

Since the launch of its Max subscription tier in 2023, Duolingo has increasingly relied on AI, and now it’s accelerating its use, though not without some discontent.

The Key Question

Google envisions Gemini as your new language mentor, while Duolingo aims to let AI take charge of its entire