In late April 2025, Duolingo CEO Luis von Ahn announced plans to transform the language-learning platform into an “AI-first” company. This initiative aimed to reduce reliance on human contractors by automating tasks through artificial intelligence. Von Ahn suggested that future hiring would be contingent upon the inability to automate roles and that AI proficiency would become a key component of employee evaluations.
The announcement sparked significant public outcry. Critics expressed concerns over job displacement and the diminishing role of human educators. The backlash was particularly intense on social media platforms, where users criticized the company’s direction. In response, Duolingo attempted to address the controversy through an Instagram post, which was met with further criticism. One prominent comment read, “Call us old-fashioned, but we prefer our lessons to be taught by humans.”
Facing mounting criticism, von Ahn issued a follow-up statement on LinkedIn, clarifying his position. He emphasized that AI is intended to augment, not replace, human employees, stating, “To be clear: I do not see AI as replacing what our employees do (we are in fact continuing to hire at the same speed as before). I see it as a tool to accelerate what we do, at the same or better level of quality.”
This incident underscores the challenges companies face when integrating AI into their operations. While automation offers efficiency gains, it also raises concerns about employment and the human touch in services. Duolingo’s experience serves as a reminder of the importance of clear communication and balancing technological advancement with human-centric values.
The Duolingo case highlights the need for companies to carefully consider the societal impact of their AI initiatives. While AI can offer significant benefits, it’s crucial to address concerns about job displacement and ensure that human values are not sacrificed in the pursuit of technological progress. Companies must engage in open dialogue with employees, users, and the public to build trust and ensure that AI is used in a way that benefits everyone.