Are you looking to tap the opportunity to build web and mobile apps for language learning that can help people learn a new language, improve pronunciation, and strengthen their vocabulary?

This definitive guide will help you learn everything you need to know to build and launch a successful app using a combination of interactive lessons, games, and quizzes to help your target customer learn the new language and build vocabulary and grammar skills.

Why do language learning apps matter

Language learning apps provide a convenient and accessible way to learn any language. Whether you are looking to settle in a new country, travel to a place where people don’t know the language you speak, or want to impress your acquaintances — the language learning apps are here to help you learn a new language. Many language learning apps are available for download on smartphones, allowing you to access the app easily and fit language learning into your daily routines.

Language learning apps provide a variety of learning materials, such as lessons, quizzes, and gamification, which make the learning process more engaging and effective. Some language learning apps provide hybrid learning feature designed to be used with a language tutor providing you with a more personalised learning experience.

What is the market for language learning app


The market for language learning apps is growing rapidly as more and more people are looking for convenient and effective ways to learn new languages, and people are looking to expand their reach and understanding across geographic boundaries. According to a report by Research and Markets, the global language learning market is expected to reach $10.9 billion by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate of 13.5% during the forecast period.

This growth is driven by factors such as the increasing use of mobile devices, the growing popularity of online education, and the rising demand for language learning among both individuals and organisations. The market for language learning apps specifically is also expected to continue growing, as more and more app developers create innovative and effective language learning tools.

What problems do learning apps solve for their target customer segment

Learning apps, such as language learning apps, can help to solve a variety of problems for different customer segments. Some examples of customer segments and the problems that learning apps solve include:

  • Students: Learning apps provide a convenient and accessible way for students to learn new language with correct pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary and diction to help them develop confidence and score better in their language exams.
  • Professionals: Learning apps help professionals learn new skills or knowledge relevant to their careers, such as a new software program or a certification. Acquiring a new language skill allows them to communicate better with their counterparts, advance in their careers, and stay competitive in the job market.
  • Lifelong learners: Learning apps provide a flexible and engaging way for lifelong learners and hobbyists to learn a new language and expand their knowledge about the culture and social aspects. They help these learners to explore new interests and hobbies and to stay curious and engaged.
  • Language learners: Learning apps provide a convenient and effective way to learn a new language. They can help language learners improve their speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills and communicate more effectively.

Overall, learning apps help to solve a variety of problems for different customer segments. It is important to carefully consider the needs and pain points of your target audience when developing a learning app and to design the app in a way that addresses these challenges and provides value to users.

What languages are people learning using the learning app


There is no definitive answer to this question, as different people use language learning apps to learn a variety of languages. Some of the most popular languages that people may be using language learning apps to learn include:

  • Spanish: Spanish is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, and is a popular choice for language learners. It is the official language of 21 countries and is spoken by millions of people worldwide.
  • English: English is another widely spoken language and is often considered a “global language” due to its widespread use in business, education, and international communication. Many people use language learning apps to learn English as a second language.
  • French: French is another widely spoken language, with millions of speakers around the world. It is the official language of 29 countries and is considered a language of culture and diplomacy.
  • German: German is the official language of Germany, Austria, and parts of Switzerland and is spoken by millions of people worldwide. It is a popular choice for language learners due to its economic and cultural significance.
  • Mandarin: Mandarin is the native language of China, and the country has become the global hub for manufacturing.
  • Indian Languages: India has a complex language structure. Within the country, people use 21 major languages in India. This multitude of languages reflects India’s lengthy and diverse history. India provides an untapped market opportunity to offer an Indian language learning app.

Overall, the specific languages that people are using language learning apps to learn will vary depending on individual preferences and goals.

What is the revenue model of learning apps

The revenue model of a learning app will depend on the specific business model and goals of the app. Some common revenue models for learning apps include:

  • Subscription: In this model, users pay a recurring fee, such as a monthly or yearly subscription, to access the full range of features and content of the app. This can provide a steady stream of revenue for the app.
  • Freemium: In this model, certain feature and content of the app is available for free, but users have to pay to unlock additional features or content, such as premium lessons or advanced features. This can provide a way for users to try the app beforehand and then upgrade if they find it valuable.
  • In-app purchases: In this model, users can purchase individual language courses or features within the app, such as advance lessons or additional language packs. This revenue model attracts users who prefer to customise their learning experience and pay for only the specific content they want.
  • Advertising: In this model, the app is available for free, and revenue is generated through the display of advertisements within the app. This can provide a way for the app to monetise its user base without charging users directly.
  • Free: Funded by social organisations and governments, several free language apps are made available to empower people with language skills.

Your decision for specific revenue model for a language learning app will depend on the specific business model and goals of the app you are planning to offer to your target customer. It is important to carefully consider which revenue model will be most effective for your app and its users.

What customers look at when choosing the language learning app

Customers consider several factors when choosing an app to learn the language. Some key things to look for include:

  • The scope and focus of the app: Does the app cover the language or languages they are interested in learning? Is it focused on a specific audience or learning style?
  • The quality and effectiveness of the materials: Are the lessons and exercises well-designed and engaging? Do they provide a comprehensive overview of the language? Do they include audio and speech recognition technology?
  • The level of personalisation and customisation: Does the app allow you to set goals, track progress, and adjust the difficulty of the lessons based on your individual needs?
  • The level of engagement and motivation: Does the app use game-like elements, such as points and badges, to make the learning process more fun and rewarding?
  • The availability of support and community: Does the app offer support from language tutors or other users, and does it have an active community of learners you can connect with?
  • The overall user experience: Is the app easy to use and navigate, and does it have a clean and user-friendly design?

It is also a good idea to read reviews and testimonials from other users to get a sense of their experiences with the app. This can provide valuable insight into the strengths and weaknesses of different learning apps for language.

What are must-have features in a language learning app


There are a number of features that are commonly found in language learning apps. Some of the key features that you may want to consider incorporating into your app include:

  • Lessons and exercises: These are the core of any language learning app, and will typically include a variety of materials, such as audio and video recordings, text-based lessons, and interactive quizzes and exercises, to help users learn the language.
  • Audio and speech recognition: Many language learning apps include audio recordings of native speakers, as well as speech recognition technology, which allows users to practice their pronunciation and improve their speaking skills.
  • Personalisation: Some language learning apps allow users to customise their learning experience by setting goals, tracking progress, and adjusting the difficulty of the lessons based on their individual needs.
  • Gamification: Many language learning apps use game-like elements, such as points, badges, and leaderboards, to make the learning process more engaging and motivating.
  • Communication with other users: Some language learning apps allow users to communicate with other learners or language tutors, which can provide a more social and interactive learning experience.
  • Translation tools: Some language learning apps include translation tools, such as dictionaries and phrasebooks, to help users understand and use the language in real-world situations.

Overall, the specific features of your language learning app will depend on your target audience, the language or languages you are focusing on, and your goals for the app. It is important to carefully consider which features will be most useful and effective for your users.

How to build a language learning app

Building a language learning app involves several steps. First, you will need to decide on the scope and focus of your app. Will it be focused on a specific language or a variety of languages? Will it target a specific audience or be more general? Will it be available only in some countries or worldwide? What are the learnability and adaptability of your target customer? This will help guide your decisions about the features and content of your app.

You will also need to determine the platform on which your app will be built. Will it be a native app as per the language and app store guidelines of a specific app store, or will it be a hybrid app? Will you also have web version of the app accessed through a web browser?

Once you have these platforms and accessibility decisions in place, you can begin to design and develop the app itself. This will involve creating the user interface and user experience, as well as developing the core language learning features and content. This may require working with a team of designers, developers, and language experts to create the app.

Once the app is built, you will need to test it to ensure that it is working properly and is user-friendly. This will involve beta testing with a small group of users, and making any necessary changes based on their feedback.

Finally, once your app is ready for launch, you will need to promote it and make it available for download. This may involve creating marketing materials, such as videos and website content, and using social media and other channels to reach potential users. It will also involve making the app available on app stores or other platforms where users can download it.

What are the steps to develop and launch app


The steps for developing and launching an app will vary depending on the specific requirements and goals of the app. However, some general steps that are typically involved in the development and launch of an app include:

  1. Define the scope and focus of the app: This involves deciding on the specific features and content of the app, target audience and platform.
  2. Design the user interface and user experience: This involves creating wireframes, mockups, and other design materials to visualise the app and ensure that it is user-friendly and intuitive.
  3. Develop the core features and functionality of the app: This involves writing the code and implementing the technologies necessary to create the core features and functionality of the app.
  4. Test and debug the app: This involves testing the app to ensure that it is working properly and is free of bugs and other technical issues.
  5. Create marketing materials and a launch plan: This involves creating promotional materials, such as videos and website content, and developing a plan for launching the app and making it available for download.
  6. Launch the app: This involves making the app available on app stores or other platforms and promoting it to potential users.

What technologies used for developing language learning app


The technologies used for developing a language learning app will depend on the specific requirements and goals of the app. Some of the key technologies that may be used in the development of a language learning app include:

  • Programming languages: Language learning apps are typically developed using a variety of programming languages, such as DotNet, JavaScript, Java, Python, and Swift. These languages are used to create the core features and functionality of the app, and to integrate it with other technologies and platforms.
  • Mobile development frameworks: For native language learning apps that are built for specific operating systems, such as Android or iOS, mobile development frameworks, such as React Native or Flutter, may be used to create the app. These frameworks provide a set of tools and libraries that can be used to quickly and easily develop mobile apps.
  • Web development frameworks: For web-based language learning apps that can be accessed through a web browser, web development frameworks, such as Angular or Vue.js, may be used. These frameworks provide a set of tools and libraries that can be used to create interactive and user-friendly web applications.
  • Audio and speech recognition technology: Many language learning apps include audio recordings of native speakers, as well as speech recognition technology, which allows users to practice their pronunciation and improve their speaking skills. This technology typically uses machine learning algorithms and natural language processing techniques to analyse and interpret audio input.
  • Database management systems: Language learning apps typically store a large amount of data, such as user accounts, lessons, and progress tracking information. This data is typically managed using a database management system, such as MySQL or MongoDB, which provides tools for storing, organising, and accessing the data.

The specific technologies used in the development of a language learning app will depend on the specific requirements and goals of the app. It is important to carefully consider which technologies will be most effective for achieving your goals.

What are the popular language learning apps

Duolingo:

A gamified language learning that makes it entertaining and interesting. provides gamification features, bite-sized lessons, and a selection of languages. Suitable for novices or individuals seeking brief, targeted training sessions.

Memrise:

Uses flashcards and spaced repetition to assist users in learning new words. Known for its unique and memorable method, which makes picking up new vocabulary enjoyable and engaging. beneficial for increasing recollection and expanding vocabulary.

Anki:

A highly popular customisable flashcard app for expanding vocabulary that isn’t just for language learners. is very customisable to your unique learning objectives because it lets users make their own decks or select from pre-made ones. Excellent for individuals who favour a more independent learning style.

 

Appetals Solutions has extensive expertise in helping clients ideate, build and launch language learning apps. Contact us to get in 15 minutes call to discuss your idea and how we can help you with a market-ready language learning app.