Google Search boosts your English with AI-powered speaking practice tool

Non-English speakers can relate to the struggles of learning learn a language and the frustration of wanting to express yourself but stumbling over grammar and vocabulary. So, to make this process a little easier, Google Search is taking a big step towards helping English learners overcome this hurdle with its new “speaking practice” tool. This AI-powered feature isn’t your typical language course; it’s a personalized coach tucked right within your Google searches.

Think of it like this: you’re translating a webpage and come across a new word. Instead of just memorizing the definition, “speaking practice” throws you a real-life scenario. It might ask you, “How would you use this word to describe your favorite movie?” You speak your answer aloud, and Google’s clever AI listens in, offering feedback in return.

This isn’t just a simple thumbs-up or thumbs-down. The feedback, according to TechCrunch, is conversational, highlighting if your answer was relevant, grammatically correct, and even suggesting alternative ways to express yourself. It’s like having a mini-conversation with a language tutor, right there on your phone. The beauty of “speaking practice” lies in its accessibility. No fancy language apps or expensive courses required. All you need is your Android device and an internet connection. This democratizes language learning, making it available to anyone with the drive to improve.

This isn’t Google’s first foray into the world of language learning. Back in late 2023, they introduced a similar tool focused on practicing individual sentences. “Speaking practice” takes it a step further, simulating conversations and providing that crucial back-and-forth that is essential for fluency.

Currently, the Google Search speaking practice feature is being tested in a few countries like Argentina, Colombia, India, Indonesia, Mexico and Venezuela. To access it, you’ll need to join Google’s Search Labs program, a hub for early-stage search experiments. It might sound a bit exclusive, but it allows Google to gather valuable feedback and refine the tool before a wider release.

This launch holds significant implications. Speaking practice hints that Google might be laying the groundwork for a true competitor to established language learning apps like Duolingo and Babbel. With its AI-powered feedback and bite-sized conversation practice sessions, “speaking practice” has the potential to improve millions of English learners around the world.