Google's AI bot can now help you learn English
Google is utilizing its artificial intelligence (AI) technology to assist individuals in learning English. The tech giant has introduced a feature, named 'Speaking practice,' that allows users to improve their English proficiency, by engaging in conversation with an AI bot via their phones. Initially launched in October 2023, this tool offered feedback on spoken sentences. Now, it also supports continuous dialogues. For now, the feedback as well as conversation practice is exclusively accessible in English.
What about its availability?
As per TechCrunch, this interactive language learning feature is currently accessible to Search Labs users in Argentina, India, Mexico, Colombia, Venezuela, and Indonesia. Search Labs is Google's platform for experimenting with potential new features for its Search function. Additionally, this feature may appear when users translate to or from English using Google on an Android device.
Google's distinct language learning approach
Google's language learning approach is distinct from other apps like Duolingo, Babbel, and Pimsleur that follow a structured curriculum. When launched, Google claimed the 'Speaking practice' tool aids learners not only in practicing but also in selecting the most suitable words or conjugations within a conversation's context. Despite having a translation feature for years now, Google has also been expanding the range of languages its AI models comprehend.
These apps also offer AI-assisted language learning
AI-assisted language learning is not a new idea. Duolingo, a leading language learning app, integrated an AI chatbot in 2016 and GPT-4 in 2023. Memrise, another digital language platform, introduced a GPT-3-dependant chatbot on Discord, to facilitate language learning through chatting. Similarly, Pimsleur prompts users to simulate conversations with the app, and answer questions in their target language.
