Big Changes Are Here for Duolingo Users!

Duolingo, the popular language learning app, is undergoing a significant transformation by replacing its traditional 'hearts' system with an innovative 'energy' mechanic. This shift aims to provide a more encouraging and gamified learning environment. Gone are the days of being penalized for mistakes—now, the focus is on motivation!

A Fresh Take on Mistakes!

In the previous hearts system, making an error meant losing a heart, which could only be regained by watching ads, spending in-app currency, or waiting for a refill. Under the new energy system, users spend one unit of energy for each exercise. However, mistakes will also cost them energy, but there's an exciting twist: users can earn back extra energy for consecutive correct answers. This means more chances to learn and practice!

More Opportunities to Learn!

Moses Wayne, a senior engineer at Duolingo, asserts that this new system is designed to encourage users to focus on their successes rather than dwell on errors. "We wanted to gamify the experience a little more," Wayne explains, highlighting the positive shift in user engagement driven by this change.

How Does the Energy System Work?

Users will start with a full energy bar consisting of 25 units (compared to just five hearts). Energy will regenerate over time, much like hearts did, but players can also purchase more energy using Gems. Those subscribed to Super Duolingo or Duolingo Max won't have to worry about running out of energy—it's unlimited!

A New Learning Experience Awaits!

Wayne points out that under the heart system, users could easily fail their first lesson of the day. With the energy mechanic, that's a thing of the past. This innovative approach is resulting in users engaging much more with the app than ever before.

Rolling Out to iOS First!

The new energy system is making its debut on iOS and is expected to roll out over the coming weeks and months, with plans to bring it to Android later this year. For users who access Duolingo on both platforms, the iOS app will feature the energy system, while the Android version will stick to the original hearts.

What’s Next for Duolingo?

In addition to these changes, Duolingo's CEO recently announced an 'AI-first' approach, and the company has doubled the number of language courses available, thanks to advancements in artificial intelligence. This commitment to innovation could reshape the future of language learning even more!