Duolingo announced it will gradually stop using contractors for work that artificial intelligence can handle, according to an internal email from CEO and co-founder Luis von Ahn. The company is adopting an “AI-first” strategy, aiming to reshape its operations fundamentally rather than making small adjustments to existing human-centered systems. Von Ahn emphasized that while the transition will reduce reliance on contractors, Duolingo remains committed to supporting its employees by helping them focus on creative and impactful work instead of repetitive tasks.
Von Ahn explained that AI is not merely a tool for boosting productivity but a means to accelerate Duolingo’s mission of teaching more learners at scale. He pointed out that recent changes, like replacing slow manual content creation with AI-powered processes, have dramatically increased their efficiency. Without AI, expanding content offerings to meet global demand would take decades. He also highlighted that AI enables innovations, such as new features like Video Call lessons, bringing the quality of Duolingo’s teaching closer to that of top human tutors.
The CEO outlined specific changes accompanying the shift: AI use will influence hiring and performance evaluations, new headcount will only be considered when automation is not feasible, and most departments will launch initiatives to adapt their workflows fundamentally.
Despite the major transition, von Ahn reassured employees that the company’s core values remain intact. The goal is not to replace staff with AI but to remove bottlenecks and allow Duolingo’s teams to focus on more meaningful work. The company also plans to offer more AI-related training and mentorship to support employees during this shift.This announcement from Duolingo aligns with broader trends among tech companies, such as Shopify, where leaders are requiring proof that tasks cannot be automated before approving new hires. Von Ahn concluded by expressing confidence that embracing AI boldly will help Duolingo continue innovating and delivering on its educational mission.
