An AR and AI extended feature to turn community chats into immersive language experiences.
Background
People want to connect across cultures
These days, more of us want to travel, meet new people, and understand different cultures, and learning a language is a big part of that.
Duolingo makes learning fun and easy
With quick lessons, cute graphics, and game-like rewards, Duolingo helps beginners get started without feeling overwhelmed.
But real fluency needs real conversation
Duolingo teaches the basics, but to actually speak and understand a language in real life, you need more practice talking with others.
Problem Statement
Duolingo lacks effective tools for natural speaking and listening practice, forcing users to rely on outside platforms that can feel intimidating or disconnected from their learning journey.
Target Users
Design Challenges
To improve the learning experience and make it more flexible, I worked with users to audit the app, simplify the flow, and reorganize the layout so the new feature could fit naturally into Duolingo’s existing structure.
Before starting the project, I explored how the app works and how users interact with it. I looked into common challenges and gathered insights, which we grouped into 5 key points:
Findings
People learn best by living the language
Different levels, different needs
Speaking out loud can feel awkward
To better understand the problem, I looked at other language learning apps and similar tools. I also read other user reviews to see what people liked, and where they were getting stuck.
What inspired me…
Snapchat filters let people play with identity and have fun being someone else. We liked the idea of using filters in our app too, so users can stay anonymous and feel more comfortable practicing conversations.
We also looked at Pokémon Go’s AR features. It inspired us to create a safe, interactive experience for younger users, where they can connect in real life through the app, but with age-appropriate filters and content moderation.
Product Feature Ideas
Conversation Filters (Inspired by Snapchat)
Anonymous matching with other learners at a similar level
Users can choose different AR masks or avatars during live chats.
Helps reduce anxiety by keeping conversations light and anonymous
Encourages roleplay scenarios for language practice (e.g., ordering food, job interviews).
Safe Mode for Younger Users
Age-based content moderation with limited access to open chats.
Interactions are pre-scripted or guided by prompts.
Visual feedback and rewards for completing real-life interaction missions.
Users can record and reflect on their experiences in-app.
AR World Challenges (Inspired by Pokémon Go)
Learners walk around and "unlock" new vocabulary by scanning real-world objects.
Complete daily AR quests that involve practicing phrases in context.
Cards prompt real-life tasks like “Order a coffee in your target language” or “Ask for directions.”
Earn badges for visiting landmarks or completing location-based tasks.
User Flows
Then I conducted an user flow to have a more concrete idea of how user would engage in certain tasks.
Information Architecture
I started thinking about how to fit my new features into Duolingo’s existing layout without making it confusing.
Existing Information Architecture
The original app had six icons on the bottom menu, but they didn’t have labels, so new users often felt lost. During testing, this came up a lot, which led me to figure out which labels and sections are truly important for a smooth learning experience.
Proposed Information Architecture
I created a new site map to show what features should be included and where they should live in the app. This helped me find the right home for each new idea so everything feels easy to find and use.
Wireframe
I developed a set of sketches that outline the layout and fundamental structure of an interface before incorporating its content, navigation, and visual design elements.
Before chatting, users agree to be kind and respectful.
These rules help create a safe and inclusive space for all learners.
Quests and badges are now featured front and center to keep users motivated.
A friendly “Welcome” message and profile button at the top personalize the experience and clear up the clutter.
Navigation is simplified to just 4 tabs: Learn, Practice, Connect, and Shop—with only the active tab highlighted.
Match with learners or native speakers who want to practice the same topic.
Check out their profile, send a message or friend request, and start chatting once accepted.
Use AR filters in video chat to ease nerves and keep it fun.
Prompts help break the ice and guide the conversation.
After chatting, leave feedback and review your recordings for self-reflection.
Finish a chat and open a reward chest to earn gems, spend them on fun filters or items.
Watch an ad to double your prize. It’s gamified learning at its best.
Customize your profile and avatar to make it feel more personal.
Track your streak, progress bar, and digital gems to celebrate every win.
See past chats and feedback for ongoing self-improvement.
Testing Findings
Positive Feedback: Users were generally satisfied with the design.
Potential Solutions
Impact
As a longtime Duolingo user, this project felt especially close to me. I’ve always loved the app’s playful approach, but I also know the frustration of hitting a plateau, not being able to read a phrase, and freezing up when it’s time to say it out loud.
Designing Duolingo Chat gave me a chance to reimagine what real conversation practice could look like, fun, low-pressure, and truly immersive. Exploring VR pushed me out of my comfort zone, but it also opened up a whole new world of possibilities for language learning.
This project reminded me that the best design doesn’t just teach, it builds confidence.
