Duolingo Embracing AI-Driven Future

Duolingo is embracing an AI-driven future, planning to gradually eliminate contractor roles suited for artificial intelligence, as revealed in an internal memo from co-founder and CEO Luis von Ahn. This announcement, shared publicly on LinkedIn, indicates a considerable operational transformation as the company officially adopts an “AI-first” mindset.

Revisiting Work Processes

In the communication, von Ahn explained that this shift would necessitate a complete re-evaluation of Duolingo’s operations, highlighting the inadequacy of mere adjustments to current systems. He stated that simple modifications to structures designed for human tasks would no longer suffice.

Phasing Out Contractor Roles

Among the adjustments, Duolingo will progressively discontinue employing contractors for tasks manageable by AI, incorporate AI usage into hiring and performance reviews, and authorise new positions only when a team cannot further automate its responsibilities.

Focus on Creative Work

Von Ahn stressed that this transition is not intended to replace employees, affectionately referred to internally as “Duos,” with AI. Instead, it aims to eliminate inefficiencies. He remarked that the goal is for team members to concentrate on creative tasks and fundamental issues, rather than on repetitive activities. He added that AI provides more than just a productivity increase; it drives the company closer to its mission.

Scaling Content Creation

He highlighted that educational initiatives at scale demand vast quantities of content creation, which cannot be fulfilled through manual methods. Von Ahn remarked that without AI, it might take decades to expand the company’s content to accommodate more learners. He noted the importance of delivering this content to learners as quickly as possible.

Industry Trends

This shift mirrors similar perspectives from other technology leaders, like Shopify’s CEO Tobi Lütke, who recently required teams to justify new hires by demonstrating that tasks could not be automated with AI.

A Historical Perspective

Von Ahn likened the current AI transition to Duolingo’s early investment in mobile-first development back in 2012, which resulted in the app winning the title of iPhone App of the Year in 2013. He asserted that the decision to focus on mobile was transformative and that they are making a comparable choice now; this time, the technological evolution is AI.

Urgency for Adoption

Although the company recognises that implementing AI across all functions will require time, von Ahn emphasised the importance of swiftly embracing this shift instead of waiting for perfect technology. He expressed a preference for moving quickly and accepting occasional minor quality dips over progressing slowly and missing crucial opportunities.

Commitment to Employee Development

As a component of this transition, Duolingo commits to offering enhanced training, mentorship, and AI resources to its teams, reaffirming its dedication to employee growth even as it accelerates automation.