Goodbye To Duolingo? Google Might Just Be Your New Language Buddy

If you are a language lover and Duolingo is your favourite app, then that might not be the case for much longer. There’s something Google is cooking up quietly that could shake up how we learn languages online. And no, it’s not just about translating a phrase here and there anymore.

Google Translate, a go to app that most of us rely on for quick translations while travelling or texting foreign friends, is now testing a brand new feature, called ‘Practice’ mode. That’s not just an update, it’s possibly an entire language learning experience in the Translate app.

Here’s what’s happening: Some tech experts, including AssembleDebug (known for uncovering hidden app features), found early code in the app showing that a “Practice” button is on the way. If active, it appears with a graduation cap icon and “Beta” tag, meaning currently in the testing phase and could launch soon.

The best part? The feature will offer “activities made just for you.” It sounds like a bunch of customised practice sessions, probably using Gemini. Think grammar tips, translation practice, or vocabulary tests based on what you actually use. Pretty cool, right?

Right now, it’s a bit of a teaser. The button doesn’t lead anywhere yet, and testing shows it only works with English and Spanish. So, expect a slow rollout—probably in phases.

Another neat addition? You’ll be able to Google search directly in your translated language, with results showing up in that language too.

So what’s the big deal? Google Translate has always been about translations. But now, it’s stepping into Duolingo’s territory—where cute owls, gamification, and daily streaks rule the language space.

Yes, Duolingo is fun, but Google has an existing gigantic user base worldwide. If this feature works, millions might ditch dedicated learning apps altogether and choose a smarter yet seamless alternative.