Tue Sep 24 04:01:00 UTC 2024: ## Duolingo Expands Beyond Language Learning with E-Piano, AI-Powered Video Calls, and New Games

**New York, NY** – Duolingo, the popular language learning app, is taking its educational offerings beyond the digital realm with the launch of its first hardware product: an electronic piano. The e-piano, developed in partnership with musical instrument manufacturer Loog, will cost $249 and is available for purchase on Duolingo’s website. This move coincides with the company’s expansion into interactive learning experiences through AI-powered video calls and new “Adventures,” which incorporate game-like elements.

Duolingo’s new Video Calls feature, previously beta-tested with Duolingo Max subscribers, allows users to engage in real-time conversations with Lily, a 2D animated character powered by OpenAI’s technology. These conversations, available in English, French, and Spanish, are designed to help users improve their fluency and listening skills through spontaneous interactions. Lily leverages OpenAI’s capabilities to remember previous conversations, creating a more personalized and engaging experience.

“We can finally give you an experience where you can simulate a real-world conversation and actually get better because it’s ultimately a muscle that you have to train,” said Zan Gilani, product manager at Duolingo.

Duolingo is also introducing new Adventures, which are interactive, top-down environments that feature familiar characters like Oscar and Lily. These “adventures” offer gamified learning experiences that help users practice real-world scenarios, such as ordering coffee at a café or navigating airport check-in.

“We always think there is a way to do both [learning and entertainment], and they don’t have to contradict each other,” said Gilani.

These new additions to Duolingo’s platform demonstrate the company’s commitment to expanding its educational offerings beyond traditional language learning methods. By incorporating AI-powered interactions, gamified learning experiences, and even physical products, Duolingo aims to make learning fun and engaging for users of all ages.

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