12 must-have language apps for iPhone right now
These apps make learning languages on iPhone easier and more fun (photo: Getty Images)
Today, knowing at least one foreign language is no longer an advantage but a necessity, opening the door to new opportunities. If you've been putting off learning, your iPhone can become your personal tutor: modern language-learning apps offer flexible, interactive methods that replace boring textbooks. Here are 12 of the best language-learning apps to help you quickly master vocabulary, grammar, and, most importantly, speaking fluently.
Duolingo
Duolingo remains the most popular language-learning app, as it combines free lessons with game-like elements and rewards, making learning engaging and fun.
Its bright design and repetition system make acquiring new vocabulary and basic grammar feel natural. It's ideal for beginners seeking daily, short, motivating practice.
Duolingo interface (photo: TechShout)
Babbel
Babbel targets adults and offers short, structured lessons that mimic a classroom setting. Its main advantage is a focus on real-life dialogues and contextual grammar explanations, helping users form full sentences right away.
It's a great choice for those aiming for steady progress and everyday conversational fluency.
Babbel interface (photo: TechShout)
Rosetta Stone
Rosetta Stone uses a full-immersion approach that trains you to think in the target language instead of translating in your head. Learning happens through associations with pictures, sounds, and phrases. The built-in TruAccent feature instantly analyzes your pronunciation, providing precise feedback to help you sound closer to a native speaker.
Rosetta Stone interface (photo: TechShout)
Pimsleur
Pimsleur emphasizes conversational fluency through audio repetition, making it perfect for learning on the go or during workouts.
Each 30-minute audio lesson focuses on natural speech rhythms and memory improvement. It's one of the best methods for building confidence in speaking, often recommended by teachers.
Pimsleur interface (photo: TechShout)
Mondly
Mondly turns language learning into a dynamic experience with its AI chat, simulating real-life conversations on travel, business, and culture. It allows you to practice speaking and receive immediate corrections, making it a great app for visual learners who want to reach fluency quickly.
Mondly interface (photo: TechShout)
Busuu
Busuu combines structured lessons with real conversation practice. You can complete writing and speaking exercises and get feedback from native speakers around the world. It's ideal for learners who value social interaction and measurable progress.
Busuu interface (photo: TechShout)
Memrise
Memrise uses short videos recorded by native speakers in real-life contexts to teach authentic pronunciation and intonation. Its spaced repetition system ensures long-term retention of vocabulary. This app is perfect for those seeking authenticity rather than dry text.
Memrise interface (photo: TechShout)
LingQ
LingQ lets you learn languages by reading and listening to real articles, podcasts, and books. You can highlight unknown words, save them, and create personalized lessons. It's a powerful tool for expanding vocabulary in context.
LingQ interface (photo: TechShout)
Drops
Drops fits perfectly into today's busy lifestyle. Each lesson lasts just five minutes and uses visual elements and animation for fast word retention. It’s ideal for learners who want daily practice focused exclusively on vocabulary.
Drops interface (photo: TechShout)
HiNative
HiNative isn't a full course but an invaluable assistant. It's a social platform where you can ask questions about grammar, slang, pronunciation, or cultural nuances and receive answers from native speakers. It's perfect for those already using language apps who need cultural context.
HiNative interface (photo: TechShout)
Preply
Preply is a platform for finding a personal tutor for live video lessons. It's the most effective method for learners who need a tailored plan, direct communication, and immediate feedback from a certified teacher.
Preply interface (photo: TechShout)
Anki
Anki uses a scientifically proven spaced repetition system for long-term memorization. It's fully customizable, works offline, and allows you to create your own decks for targeted vocabulary and grammar learning. Its simple interface is compensated by remarkable efficiency.
Anki interface (photo: TechShout)
