Busuu introduces AI-Powered 'Speaking Practice' to enhance language learning

Busuu, a Chegg-owned language learning platform, has introduced 'speaking practice,' an AI-driven feature designed to help users improve their language skills. 

The tool has been created to provide a safe, judgement-free space for learners to practice speaking a new language. It offers personalised pronunciation feedback and videos with native speakers to enhance listening and speaking abilities.

A survey by Busuu and EY-Parthenon found that 55% of language learners focus on improving their conversational skills, and 66% prefer 'listen & repeat' exercises.

The 'speaking practice' feature addresses these needs by creating an experience that includes the sounds, accents, and mouth movements of native speakers. 

The feature uses AI speech recognition to process learners' speech, grade their sentences, highlight areas needing improvement, and provide instant and personalised feedback.

The 'speaking practice' feature is available for English, Spanish, French, and German learners across all of Busuu's 16 interface languages. English and Spanish learners receive the full version of AI-powered feedback, including actionable insights to improve their speaking skills. 

Busuu’s courses cover listening, reading, writing, and speaking, designed by experts to provide a comprehensive learning experience. The 'speaking practice' feature is integrated into these courses, ensuring that learners start with grammar, words, and phrases before moving on to speaking exercises.

Learners can access 'speaking practice' by downloading the Busuu app on Apple's App Store. The feature will be available on Android later this year, with a web version expected in the future. 

Gino Micacchi, Vice President of Product at Busuu, commented:

 "'Speaking practice' is the perfect stepping stone to help language learners feel confident in using another language in real life. 

“The combination of immersive videos using native speakers alongside personalised real-time AI-powered feedback provides learners with a life-like language learning experience."