Artificial intelligence is transforming everything—especially the world of work—reshaping companies’ business and organizational models. Many sectors, from media to tech giants, are adopting AI to replace employees or external contractors in a drive for optimization and savings.
After newspapers like Le Point, which reduced its team of proofreaders, and companies like Meta and Uber, which are betting on automation to streamline costs, it’s now Duolingo’s turn—the language-learning app—to take a decisive step. Here’s how the company is committing to an “AI-first” transformation.
A wave of automation in companies with AI
AI is becoming an essential lever for organizations looking to optimize their processes. This well-underway movement is affecting a wide range of sectors. Media outlets, for example, use AI to cut editing or writing costs, while tech companies like Shopify, Meta, Amazon, or Uber automate tasks to reduce their dependence on staff.
Duolingo is part of this trend by gradually reducing its use of external contractors. As early as 2024, the company began this shift with a 10% reduction in its external contracts, a trend that is accelerating in 2025.
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Duolingo, an “AI-first” company
In an internal email shared on LinkedIn, Luis von Ahn, Duolingo’s co-founder and CEO, announced a major strategic shift: AI is becoming the company’s central pillar. Far from merely boosting productivity, artificial intelligence is now redefining the entire organization.
By automating tasks previously handled by contractors, Duolingo aims to become more efficient while cutting costs. This “AI-first” approach marks a turning point, placing AI at the heart of strategic and operational decisions.
See also: Can ChatGPT replace a psychologist’s work?
AI, a key hiring criterion
AI’s impact at Duolingo isn’t limited to automation. The company now treats proficiency with AI tools as an essential skill in its hiring process. Candidates will need to demonstrate their ability to use these technologies, while current employees will be assessed on how effectively they can leverage them.
In addition, Duolingo is imposing a strict rule: no new role will be created without proof that automation is impossible for the task in question. This requirement reflects a redefinition of the profiles sought in a world where AI is becoming ubiquitous.
Read also on this topic: Will AI replace accountants? The truth about the future of the profession
What does this mean for the future of work?
Duolingo’s strategy reflects a broader trend: AI is reshaping the nature of work, replacing certain functions while demanding new skills. While automation promises efficiency gains, it also raises questions about the future of jobs—especially for contractors and easily automated roles.
By positioning itself this way, Duolingo is paving the way for a model where AI is no longer a simple option, but an essential component. It remains to be seen how this balance between innovation and job preservation will evolve in the years ahead. What do you think—will we all be replaced by AI in the future? The debate is open!
