AI is everywhere, powering tools, streamlining workflows, even writing the occasional blog post. With AI constantly in the news, we frequently get asked how Babbel For Business uses AI. Like us, you may be reading, with mixed feelings, about how companies trumpet that they’re going to stop using people and start relying more fully on large language models.
At Babbel for Business, we’re always looking to embrace new ways to improve our offerings.. But we were mindful as we looked to incorporate AI. We are a people-centered company, so we did not want to approach the integration of AI as a replacement for human-centered language instruction, but as a strategic enhancement. At Babbel, language is about human connection, so we’ve been deliberate about where AI fits in… and where it doesn’t. We have also built our platform on rigorous, well-studied learning techniques, and we made sure that any integration of AI met those standards.
Here’s how Babbel for Business uses AI to close real learning gaps — while keeping people and proven learning methodologies front and center.
How Babbel for Businesses Uses AI: A Strategic Partner, Not a Silver Bullet
Language learning isn’t just about absorbing vocabulary. It’s about knowing when and how to use that vocabulary in real conversations, especially in workplace settings. This gap between knowledge and use is what we call the proficiency gap — and it’s where AI can add real value.
At Babbel, we began our AI journey not by asking, “how can AI replace what our people do?” but, “How can AI enhance the human connections that make language learning meaningful?” In response to that, we developed our AI Conversation Partner.
This feature simulates structured, goal-oriented conversations. It’s tailored to beginner learners who crave psychological safety and a space to practice speaking without fear of judgment. Learners are guided through tasks, given relevant vocabulary, and receive personalized feedback at the end.
But the real value? It’s available 24/7, a burden we’d never impose on our human teachers. It doesn’t replace human-to-human conversation, but builds the skills and confidence to empower learners to progress on to more sophisticated, human-led language learning.
Our AI Strategy: Start With Learners, Not Just Technology
When large language models hit the scene, we didn’t rush to bolt them onto our product. We started with one essential question: What do our learners actually need?
Here’s what shaped our approach:
- Beginner learners benefit most. We found that early-stage learners, those often too anxious to join live classes, found safety and confidence in practicing with an AI partner.
- Structure > total freedom. Contrary to expectations, learners preferred some scaffolding in their AI conversations, not totally open-ended chats.
- Enhancement, not disruption. We designed AI to support our existing blended learning model, not replace it. That meant saying no to impressive tech features that didn’t align with our educational philosophy.
- Focus on real gaps. We used AI where it could deliver unique value, not where it duplicated what our teachers and curriculum already do well. Our experts leverage AI to create efficiencies in the course creation process, but the final word always rests with our people.
How We Don’t Use AI
Didactics experts and experienced educators are the drivers behind all our course content. AI doesn’t replace our teachers. And it doesn’t do the heavy lifting of instruction.
Our curriculum is — and always will be — created by real language experts, guided by proven methodologies for adult learners in professional settings. Live classes are taught by qualified instructors, not avatars. And our lessons are rooted in cultural context, workplace relevance, and real human interaction.
Because translating a word isn’t the same as knowing when to say it… or not to say it.
Why AI Translation Tools Don’t Cut It at Work
Some people believe that relying solely on the handy, instantaneous translation tools (which even speak the word aloud for you!) can do all the work of bridging language gaps. Yes, AI translation tools are getting faster and flashier. But they still fall short when it comes to high-stakes workplace communication.
Here’s why we don’t rely on them, and why your team shouldn’t either:
- They don’t build skills. Real fluency requires active practice, not passive substitution.
- They miss nuance. Idioms, tone, intent, and cultural context often get lost in machine translation.
- They create risk. In industries like healthcare, construction, and manufacturing, mistranslations can jeopardize safety, compliance, and trust.
AI translations might help in a pinch. But they don’t foster teamwork, client relationships, or leadership credibility. They skip all the real advantages of language learning, the science-backed brain benefits, the cultural awareness, and the human-to-human connection.
The Bottom Line: How Babbel for Business Uses AI, People-Powered, AI-Enhanced
At Babbel for Business, we’ve designed a human–AI partnership that reflects what language learning really is: deeply personal, cultural, and relational.
We don’t ask, “What can AI replace?”
We ask, “Where can AI enhance the human learning experience?”
By using AI to fill real learning gaps, not to cut corners, we help teams unlock better communication, stronger collaboration, and more inclusive workplaces.
Because the goal isn’t just to learn words and phrases in a new language. It’s to connect. And that’s what Babbel’s always been about.
Ready to see our solutions in action?
Schedule your personalized demo today and discover how we can elevate your team’s learning experience!
