Language-learning app Duolingo said on the 17th that it will launch "Duolingo Chess" in the Korean market.
First released on the iOS platform in Jun., Duolingo Chess uses a puzzle-based learning approach designed so that even beginners can start easily. According to the company, within three months of launch it had secured millions of daily learners.
At its annual global event "Duocon 2025" held on 16th, Duolingo said it is now releasing Duolingo Chess on the Android platform and will offer the game in major languages including Spanish, French, German, Italian, and Portuguese. It will also introduce a real-time battle (PvP) mode in Duolingo Chess so learners can play live matches against other users around the world.
A Duolingo official said, "The PvP mode adds unpredictable elements and a competitive structure that boost motivation to learn, expanding chess beyond a simple intellectual activity into a new social experience."
In addition, Duolingo said it will add a feature to link Duolingo Scores to LinkedIn profiles. By listing language scores earned on Duolingo on LinkedIn profiles without conversion, Duolingo will demonstrate its credibility as an objective standard for verifying language ability and directly contribute to creating career opportunities in the actual job market, the company said.
Luis von Ahn, Duolingo co-founder and chief executive officer (CEO), said, "Adding Duolingo Scores to a LinkedIn profile or playing matches against real opponents under the guidance of the chess coach character 'Oscar' shows that learning with Duolingo is fun, practically useful, and trustworthy."
Furthermore, Duolingo cited artificial intelligence (AI)-based conversational technology and large-scale data testing capabilities as the two key drivers leading the evolution of its products. Duolingo said it also improved its AI-based video call feature with this update. It provides an initial usage guide, real-time feedback, and a post-call review so that speaking practice feels like a natural conversation experience rather than simple training.
Duolingo said, "This announcement shows that Duolingo is evolving beyond a simple language-learning app into a comprehensive education platform," adding, "We expect it to be an important turning point that connects online learning with real life, rather than keeping it in the virtual world inside smart devices."