Memrise, the London-based language learning app with 70 million global users, has announced the launch of its new AI Buddies. The AI-powered language tutor bots each focus on a different area of language to bridge the gap between language learning and real-world application, empowering users to confidently speak, as well as connect with other cultures using Memrise’s Learn, Immerse, Communicate (LIC) pedagogy.
There are a total of seven AI Buddies – each with a special focus:
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Assistant
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Sentence builder
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Grammar
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Role-play
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Translator
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Culture
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Conjugation
Though other language apps’ gamified features seem convenient and attractive, they can provide a false sense of progress, because speaking a new language is about more than just memorizing vocabulary. It requires understanding cultural nuances, having authentic conversations (just like the locals!), and arguably most important – making meaningful human connections. That’s why Memrise was inspired to design AI Buddies to create a learning experience that feels like the closest thing to actually visiting a country – so that users are actually immersed in the language the way real natives speak it.
Memrise understands the importance of putting meaningful effort into the language-learning process – because as real polyglots know, that’s how you develop real speaking skills. That’s why AI Buddies allow users to practice their conversational skills in a safe and supportive environment, where it’s OK to make mistakes.
Humans are bad at learning languages, so AI Buddies offer a much-needed fresh perspective on language learning that actually feels rewarding. What else sets Memrise’s AI Buddies apart?
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Focus on real-world conversations: AI Buddies can simulate authentic conversations with real native speakers, going beyond standard AI chatbots offered by other language apps. This allows users to practice putting the words they learn into practice by “immersing” themselves in conversation in a way that feels natural and engaging.
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Emphasis on culture: Language and culture are intertwined. AI Buddies are integrated with the app’s extensive library of native speaker videos and culturally relevant content, providing a holistic learning experience.
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Personalized and adaptive learning: Users can tailor their learning experience to their specific goals and interests, ensuring that the learning content is relevant and motivating.
Who are AI Buddies for?
Memrise’s AI Buddies are designed for anyone who wants to learn a new language and actually speak it:
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People who need to speak a new language for a job or upcoming trip
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People who want to connect with other cultures on a deeper level – like understanding foreign media and art
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People who are frustrated by other language learning methods and are ready to try an approach based in neuroscience
Founded in 2010 by neuroscientists at Oxford, Memrise has always been dedicated to a no-nonsense, non-gamified, and fun approach to language learning. Though Memrise was an early adopter of AI, their AI Buddies are just the latest and greatest feature of the app – and they’re available now in 17 languages: Danish, Dutch, French, German, Icelandic, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese (no script), Mongolian, Norwegian, Portuguese (Brazil), Portuguese (Portugal), Slovenian, Spanish, Spanish (Mexico), Swahili, Swedish, Turkish, and Yoruba.
Featured Photo by Aedrian Salazar on Unsplash.
