Sylvi launches AI language penpals, as it claims to be the first language learning experience built around the student
Sylvi users are asked to outline their goals, interests and reasons for studying a language before being matched with an AI Penpal. The entire process is said to take just 30 seconds.
For example, a user learning Spanish to connect with their partner’s family might be matched with ‘Valentina”, who shares their love of cooking and remembers their favourite recipes.
"People learn languages for deeply personal reasons – they want to connect with their Italian
in-laws, land a promotion in Berlin, or order with confidence in Barcelona," explains Sylvi’s Founder Tom Standen. "Penpal gets you ready for those real moments".
The AI Penpal remember the user’s routine and conversation history to send relevant notifications that are designed to feel like text messages from a real friend. Instead of receiving a reminder to study, a notification might read: “Hey! Did you finish that Netflix show? What did you think of the ending?”
AI Penpals are available with a premium subscription to Sylvi and are available in Italian, French, German, Spanish and Portuguese languages.
The news follows shortly after Sylvi introduced a new feature allowing users to generate personalized lesson plans directly within the app. The update was announced in a LinkedIn post by founder Tom Standen, who attributed the change to ongoing feedback from users.
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The EdTech Innovation Hub Awards celebrate excellence in global education technology, with a particular focus on workforce development, AI integration, and innovative learning solutions across all stages of education.
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