August 17, 2025:
Duolingo CEO Clarifies AI Memo Misunderstanding - Duolingo CEO Luis von Ahn clarified his statement about the company becoming AI-first, addressing concerns about potential layoffs. He emphasized that no full-time employees have been laid off, although the contractor workforce adjusts with demand.
The controversy has not impacted Duolingo's finances, and von Ahn is optimistic about AI's potential. The company dedicates Friday mornings to AI experimentation, humorously calling them f-r-A-I-days, despite the pronunciation challenge.
