I’m heading to Europe in a few weeks and I’m brushing up on my language skills. I downloaded a few free apps to get a jump on learning and PolyChat sticks out for a few reasons. It’s got a few hundred lessons for each language so you won’t run out of practice any time soon. You can tap on the Explain button to get an AI generated explanation of the exercise which is useful if you aren’t sure why you got it right or wrong. The app also has an AI Chat tool that allows you to try different scenarios of role-plays like greetings and introductions, ordering food & drinks, asking for directions etc. There is even a translator with the app in case you are traveling and need an on the fly phrase for use on the go. I’ve been using it for a weekend I’ve leaned a few hundred words and phrases which I can track in my profile to make sure I’m making quick progress.

I used a certain app featuring a bird for a very long time to try to learn Italian. I was doing great until that app changed its entire structure a few years ago. Since then I have tried all sorts of apps to try to find something as effective as that app once was. These guys managed to create the first app that is just like that app used to be. I’m learning Italian again thanks to the great structure and organization of this app. Tons of great features, no intrusive ads, and a really clean and simple (in a good way) layout. Props to the developers and I hope they stick to this current formula as it’s perfect!

This app has a lot of the tools you would expect in multiple apps. You’ve got your standard lessons and exercises but also a translator, for lots of languages. They for sure communicate on Reddit and take feedback into account so it’s a good way to participate in a new app getting off the ground. The scenario portion and role play is great for traveling. I know a good bit of Spanish so the lack of level adjustment makes things different but there are still other fun aspects of the program.

Boning up on my French after a long hiatus. Trying a few apps and PolyChat shines for a few reasons. It has a slew of lessons with a wide range of exercises that I haven't seen in other apps like timed vocab exercises. You can get explanations for each exercise without having to pay extra which is sweet. The app includes a translator that automatically gives you alternative translations and meanings so you can see the nuance. Also sweet. Recommend this app for travellers.