In an era where language skills are increasingly vital for global communication and career advancement, two innovative language learning solutions are making headlines. Babbel, a popular language training app, has been recognized for its effectiveness, while Speak, an AI-based English learning app, has secured a spot on Forbes' prestigious 2025 AI 50 list.
Researchers from the City University of New York have made a compelling assertion: daily immersion in a language using a language training app can yield results equivalent to a semester's worth of college language training, all with just about two hours of study each week. This finding underscores the rising importance of technology in education, particularly in language acquisition.
Since its launch in 2008, Babbel has emerged as the #1-selling language app, boasting over 15 million subscriptions. The app has also received high praise, earning a 4.5 out of 5 star rating on Google Play and 4.6 out of 5 on the Apple App Store. Users appreciate Babbel’s conversational structure, which allows them to learn up to 14 different languages through engaging, short lessons.
With lessons lasting between 10 to 15 minutes, Babbel focuses on practical topics that users are likely to encounter in real-world conversations. Available languages include French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Swedish, Turkish, Dutch, Polish, Indonesian, Norwegian, Danish, Russian, and English. Babbel's advanced speech recognition technology assists learners in refining their pronunciation, starting with essential phrases that travelers might need, such as asking for directions or purchasing necessities. As learners progress, they are gradually introduced to more complex topics, enhancing their vocabulary and grammar.
For those interested in a comprehensive learning experience, a lifetime subscription to Babbel is available for $169.99, which includes access to all future languages. This offer is particularly appealing for travelers, lifelong learners, and professionals seeking to enhance their language skills for business purposes.
On the cutting-edge side of language learning, Speak has made significant strides since its inception. Launched in 2018 by Speakeasy Labs, the app has quickly gained traction, particularly after its launch in Korea in 2019. Speak has harnessed the power of artificial intelligence to provide English and Spanish learning solutions, attracting approximately 10 million users worldwide.
Connor Zwick, CEO of Speak, expressed pride in the company’s recent recognition by Forbes, stating, "Being selected for the Forbes AI 50, which only nominates the most innovative companies in the global AI technology field, is a meaningful moment that recognizes the value of our technology and vision. Language is more than just a means of communication, but the key to global careers and cross-cultural communication. Speak will continue to break down language barriers with AI technology and create a world where people can communicate confidently."
The Forbes AI 50 list is an annual compilation that highlights private companies making significant contributions to solving real-world problems through AI technology. This year, Speak was among 1,860 candidates, with finalists chosen based on their technological capabilities and business potential, evaluated by experts and venture capital firms like Sequoia Capital and Meritech Capital.
In addition to its recent accolade, Speak has also demonstrated its financial viability. The company successfully raised about 110 billion won (approximately $77.24 million) in Series C funding in 2024, achieving unicorn status with a valuation of 1.4 trillion won. This impressive funding round underscores the growing interest in AI-driven education solutions and the potential for further innovation in language learning.
Both Babbel and Speak exemplify the transformative power of technology in education, particularly in language acquisition. As globalization continues to connect individuals from diverse backgrounds, the demand for effective language learning solutions is only expected to grow.
With Babbel's user-friendly approach and Speak's innovative AI technology, learners have more options than ever to enhance their language skills. Whether one prefers traditional lessons or cutting-edge AI solutions, the future of language learning looks promising.
As these platforms evolve, they are likely to play a crucial role in shaping how individuals communicate across cultures, fostering greater understanding and collaboration in an increasingly interconnected world. The journey to mastering a new language has never been more accessible or engaging, thanks to these pioneering applications.
In conclusion, with the rise of language learning apps like Babbel and Speak, individuals now have the tools to break down language barriers and enhance their communication skills, paving the way for personal and professional growth.
