Google Translate Levels Up with Practice Mode and Gemini AI, Taking Aim at Duolingo
Google is planning major AI-powered updates to its Translate app, which may put it in direct competition with Duolingo. The highlight of this update is a new Practice Mode designed to make language learning more interactive. According to an Android Authority report, this feature creates personalized lessons. However, at launch, users can only practice in French or Spanish.
When selecting a language, learners choose their proficiency level from options such as Just Starting, Basic, Intermediate, or Advanced. Afterward, Google Translate presents different scenarios for practice, including food and drink, greetings and introductions, or asking for directions. In addition, learners may create their own practice scenarios and decide whether the session will focus on listening or speaking. This flexibility ensures that users remain engaged and can learn in a context that feels relevant.
UI changes improve usability
Alongside Practice Mode, Google is also rolling out updates to the app’s interface. For example, the voice input button is shrinking in size and moving to the right-hand side instead of its previous central spot. At the same time, a bookmark button is being added at the top to allow users to save content more easily. Furthermore, a new row of icons will sit at the bottom of the screen, giving direct access to microphone input, handwriting, and paste options. These design choices aim to make the Translate app more convenient for everyday use.
Model picker powered by Gemini
Another notable feature is the addition of a model picker on the Translate results page. The Fast model focuses on speed and efficiency, making it suitable for quick tasks like reading menus or signs. By contrast, the Advanced model uses Gemini for more accurate, context-aware translations, which could be valuable during deeper conversations with native speakers.
Currently, the Advanced model supports only English–French and English–Spanish. Nevertheless, this limitation hints at a gradual rollout, which could expand to more languages later. With these changes, Google Translate is evolving from a simple translation tool into a more comprehensive language-learning assistant.
