Duolingo Drops AI Use From Employee Performance Reviews

Duolingo adopted an “AI-first” operating strategy in April 2025, asking teams to consider automation before adding resources and initially linking AI adoption to hiring and performance management. The approach drew scrutiny over whether employees could be judged for using a particular technology rather than for the quality and impact of their work, while also fueling concerns that artificial intelligence might become a mechanism for reducing headcount.

Chief Executive Officer Luis von Ahn has now said Duolingo will stop considering whether employees use AI in performance reviews and will focus evaluations on results. The language-learning company reiterated that AI is intended to support productivity, not replace the professional judgment and creativity of its workforce. Duolingo did not disclose how many employees are affected, any associated cost or savings, or a formal effective date for the policy change.