Top Startups To Help You Learn A New Language

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, learning a new language is more than just a hobby, it’s a way to explore new cultures, open up wider career opportunities and fuel personal growth.

 

The Benefits Of Learning A Language

 

Learning a language isn’t just good for a person’s career, it also has wider benefits – particularly in a country like the UK. According to research by the British Council, 73% of young adults said learning a second language makes international travel easier, 72% said it broadens career opportunities, and 70% said it increases understanding of different cultures.

Beyond improving an understanding of a different culture, learning a language improves memory and can be great for cognitive development.

 

What Are The Most Widely Spoken Languages Globally?

 

If you’re unsure which language you want to learn, it might be worth looking at the most widely spoken ones. It might also be worth thinking about where you’d like to travel or live in the future, to ensure you’re setting yourself up in the best way possible.

According to Berlitz, in 2024 the most spoken global languages are:

• English (1,452 million speakers)
• Mandarin (1,118 million speakers)
• Hindi (602+ million speakers)
• Spanish (548+ million speakers)
• French (280 million speakers)
• Modern Standard Arabic (274 million speakers)

 

How Long Does It Take To Learn A Language?

 

Depending on the language you want to learn – and the amount of time you are able to dedicate to it – the entire process can take between 12-18 months.

However, this might be longer if the process includes learning an entire new alphabet, or if the language has a new structure. For example, learning Portuguese as an English speaker is harder than it would be for a Spanish speaker, given the two languages are structurally similar.

However, reaching fluency can be a much longer process, and may need some form of immersion – whether it be with native speakers in the country or expats living where you are.

Whether you want to become bilingual for work, travel, or simply for personal development there are a number of startups ready to help you achieve your language learning goals.

Here are some of the top startups making waves in the language learning space.

 

1. Memrise

 

 

Memrise is a language platform that uses flashcards to help people learn languages. Using mnemonic techniques, the company uses audio and video to help people improve retention and learn new languages.

 

2. Duolingo

 

 

This list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Duolingo: a language learning app that has become a household name.

Using gamification and containing more than 30 languages, the free app helps people learn new vocab, stay motivated and is ideal for both beginners and those who simply want to keep up their language skills.

 

3. Polyglot

 

 

Named after those who can speak multiple languages, Polyglot is an app that helps people become fluent in English, French and Spanish. The app allows people to develop their listening and speaking skills, with a strong focus on native accents.

Still relatively new, the app is certainly a good option for those looking to expand their languages.

 

4. Univerbal

 

 

Univerbal is an AI language tutor accessible anytime, anywhere. Formally known as Quazel, the app supports 22 languages including Spanish, French Japanese and more.

By immersing in specific topics and practicing real-world conversations, the app is helping more people expand their language repertoire.

 

 

5. Babbel

 

 

Babbel is one of the biggest language learning apps, offering subscription-based learning services. With a whole host of languages on the platform and 15 million people using their services, Babbel’s lessons are helping people speak new languages confidently in everyday situations.

 

6. NovaKid

 

 

NovaKid is an online language school catered for kids who want to learn English. The app is designed to teach English as a second language, allowing students to engage with and be taught by native English speakers.

 

7. Lingoda

 

 

Lingoda is a subscription based learning platform that teaches languages in virtual live classes. More like a virtual classroom than an app, the company allows language learners to be taught by native speakers of German, English, Spanish and French.

 

8. Busuu

 

 

Busuu has language courses in 14 languages that adapt to each learner’s individual needs.

It includes interactive exercises, quizzes, and real-life conversations with native speakers. Busuu also allows users to practice their skills with other learners, helping them get better peer-to-peer practice and feedback.