Duolingo is removing the paywall from its dedicated "Practice" tab, giving free users access to tools previously reserved for subscribers. This update allows students to target specific skills like speaking and listening without needing a paid subscription.
What Happened
On February 18, Duolingo announced that the Practice tab is now available to all learners at no cost. Previously, the "barbell" icon on the home screen housed features often restricted to paid subscribers. Now, free users can access specific study modules including Mistakes, Words, Speak, and Listen.
According to the company's announcement, this update aims to help learners target weak spots on demand. For example, the "Mistakes" module allows students to review previous errors so they do not repeat them, while the "Words" module bolsters vocabulary retention. This rollout builds on a recent decision to make Explain My Answer—a feature that provides context on grammar errors—free for all users.
The Bigger Picture
This shift represents a significant change in Duolingo's "freemium" model. Until recently, advanced feedback features were often locked behind Duolingo Max, a subscription tier costing roughly $168 per year. As we previously reported, the company has been heavily investing in AI tools, but access was often limited to high-paying users.
While the new update democratizes access to grammar explanations and mistake review, some high-end AI features remain paid. For example, Roleplay and Video Call simulations still require a Max subscription. Additionally, platform parity remains an issue: while the Practice tab update is live for iOS, Android users are currently waiting for the rollout.
What This Means for Families
For parents and educators, this update removes a major frustration: the inability to review specific errors effectively without paying. Students can now access the Mistakes hub to understand why they got a question wrong, rather than just repeating a generic lesson. This moves the free version of the app closer to a legitimate study tool rather than just a game.
However, limitations exist. Families should note that immersive content within the Practice tab, such as Stories, is still limited to specific languages like Spanish and French. Furthermore, a Super Duolingo subscription is still required to remove ads and get unlimited "hearts," which dictate how long a student can learn in one sitting before being locked out.
What You Can Do
- Update the app: Ensure your child's device is running the latest version of Duolingo to see the new barbell icon.
- Check for the tab: Look for the barbell icon in the bottom menu. If it is missing, tap the three dots icon to find it in the extended menu.
- Assign "Mistakes" review: If you use Duolingo for homeschooling or homework, ask students to clear their "Mistakes" queue before starting new lessons to ensure they aren't building on shaky foundations.