Duolingo CEO Claims AI Takeover Memo Was Just a 'Lost in Translation' Moment, Promises It Won't Eat Your Homework

In a turn of events that shocked absolutely no one, Duolingo CEO Luis von Ahn has come forward to clarify that his recently leaked memo about turning Duolingo into an 'AI-first company' was, in fact, a simple misunderstanding. 'I thought everyone knew I was joking,' von Ahn said, while nervously petting what appeared to be a very suspicious-looking robotic owl.

According to von Ahn, the memo was merely a 'creative writing exercise' meant to inspire his team. 'It's not like we're actually planning to replace all human interaction with cold, unfeeling AI... yet,' he chuckled, before quickly adding, 'That was another joke. Please don't screenshot this.'

The controversy began when internal documents revealed plans for 'AI language teachers' that would 'gently encourage' users to practice by sending them increasingly threatening notifications. 'We just want to make learning fun and slightly terrifying,' von Ahn explained. 'It's all about balance.'

In response to user concerns about being judged by an algorithm, von Ahn assured everyone that the AI would be '100% empathetic'. 'Our AI will understand your struggles, mainly because it will have access to your browsing history, location data, and that one time you cried during a Duolingo lesson,' he said.

As for the future, von Ahn hinted at even more 'innovative' features, including an AI that can mimic the disappointment of a real-life language teacher when you forget to practice for the third day in a row. 'Imagine the motivational power of synthetic shame,' he mused.

While some users remain skeptical, others are excited about the possibilities. 'I can't wait for my Duolingo AI to guilt-trip me in 12 different languages,' said one enthusiastic learner.

In the meantime, von Ahn has promised to be 'more clear' in future communications, starting with a memo written entirely in emojis. 'That way, no one can misinterpret our intentions,' he said, before ominously adding, 'Or can they?'