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PITTSBURGH — Duolingo will begin gradually phasing out contract workers for tasks that can be automated through artificial intelligence, according to an internal memo from co-founder and CEO Luis von Ahn. The announcement marks a significant step in the company’s transformation into what von Ahn calls an “AI-first” organization.
In the memo — later shared publicly via Duolingo’s LinkedIn page — von Ahn explained that the company must rethink its operational structure to scale faster and reduce reliance on manual processes.
“This isn’t about replacing Duos with AI,” von Ahn wrote, using the internal nickname for Duolingo employees. “It’s about removing bottlenecks so we can do more with the outstanding Duos we already have.”
Key Structural Changes
The transition will involve several notable adjustments:
- Reduction in contractor roles, particularly where AI can perform equivalent tasks.
- Hiring priorities will shift, favoring candidates with AI skills and experience.
- Performance reviews will now take into account how employees integrate AI tools into their workflows.
- Headcount increases will require justification that the role cannot be automated.
These changes come as the company continues to integrate AI into key functions such as content generation, curriculum development, and app features.
AI to Drive Scale and Efficiency
Von Ahn emphasized the critical need to produce educational content at a much faster rate than manual methods allow. “We owe it to our learners to get them this content ASAP,” he stated. “Without AI, it would take decades.”
WhatsApp Simplifies Voice Messaging with One-Tap Recording
Duolingo has already made significant progress in this direction. In 2024, it cut around 10% of its contract workforce, citing growing reliance on AI. The company has also deployed AI-based chatbots and content generation tools, including features based on its in-app characters.
AI Integration Across the Industry
Duolingo’s strategy reflects a broader trend across the tech sector, where companies like Shopify and Uber are also emphasizing AI proficiency as essential for future roles. The shift highlights how AI is reshaping not just products but internal operations and hiring philosophies.
Despite the reduction in contract roles, von Ahn reassured employees that full-time staff remain central to the company’s vision. Training and mentorship programs in AI tools are planned to help existing team members adapt and thrive in the evolving landscape.
Strong Market Performance
Duolingo’s embrace of AI has coincided with a strong financial performance. The company’s stock has surged 68% over the past year, buoyed by rising paid subscriptions and successful expansions into adjacent educational categories like music and chess.
As Duolingo evolves into an increasingly AI-driven platform, the company aims to balance innovation with stability — ensuring that automation complements human creativity, rather than replacing it outright.
