Duolingo Expands Learning Options with New Chess Course

Duolingo Expands Educational Offerings with New Chess Course

In a bold move to broaden its educational horizons, Duolingo, the popular language-learning app known for its engaging and gamified approach, has officially launched a chess course. This innovative addition aims to teach users the intricacies of chess, from the basic movements of each piece to advanced strategies for winning.

The initial version of the chess course was made available to a select group of English-speaking users with Apple devices on April 22, 2025. This marks Duolingo’s first foray into chess education since the introduction of its music and math courses earlier this year.

What to Expect from Duolingo’s Chess Course

Duolingo’s chess course is designed for beginners, starting with the fundamentals of how each piece moves. As users progress, they will learn to identify tactical patterns and develop winning strategies. The course emphasizes interactive learning through short puzzles, which can be practiced in “mini matches” or full games against the app’s in-game chess coach, Oscar—a character humorously described as a high school art teacher.

Availability and Accessibility

Currently, the chess course is in a limited beta phase, accessible to a few thousand users. However, Duolingo plans to roll out the full course to all English users with Apple devices in the coming weeks. The company has also indicated that support for additional operating systems and languages will follow in the months ahead.

Is It Free?

Yes, true to Duolingo’s mission of making education accessible, the chess course is completely free for users.

About Duolingo

Founded in 2011, Duolingo has transformed the way people learn languages, offering lessons in over 40 languages, as well as courses in mathematics and music. The app’s unique, game-like format has made it a favorite among learners of all ages.

As Duolingo continues to innovate and expand its educational offerings, the addition of a chess course is a testament to its commitment to providing diverse learning opportunities. Whether you’re a novice looking to learn the game or someone seeking to refine your skills, Duolingo’s chess course promises to be an engaging and enriching experience.

For more information, visit Duolingo’s official website or check the app for updates on the chess course rollout.

Greta Cross is a national trending reporter at USA TODAY. Story idea? Email her at gcross@usatoday.com.