Speaking practice
Teacher · Language Practice Partner
“Speaking practice” (Teacher) was largely replaced by AI in 2026, after AI entered in 2022.
AI enters
2022
Largely replaced
2026
Replacement progress
100%
Technology / key factor
Real-time voice LLMs
What this task is
Speaking partners hold conversations with learners in a foreign language, correcting pronunciation and phrasing as they go and simulating oral exams or everyday situations like ordering food.
How AI replaces it
Real-time voice LLMs converse naturally with low latency while correcting pronunciation and grammar and role-playing scenarios; they developed quickly from 2022. By 2026 most routine speaking practice can be handled by AI at a fraction of a tutor's cost.
What stays human
Human tutors remain for advanced expression, cultural nuance and exam strategy, and for learners who specifically want the feel of a real conversation with another person.