Duolingo's CEO has 3 criteria for deciding what topics to add - and explains why Pokemon and coding didn't make the cut
Briefly

Duolingo's CEO, Luis von Ahn, outlined three key criteria for selecting subjects for the educational app: significant global demand, a positive impact on society, and the capability of being effectively taught on mobile platforms. He indicated that although there is interest in various niche subjects (like Pokémon cards), they are focused on topics that will benefit humanity. With 46.6 million daily active users and broad subject offerings, Duolingo is committed to making education accessible, although von Ahn expressed past regrets about the company's monetization timeline.
Duolingo's CEO, Luis von Ahn, shared that the company evaluates subject additions based on demand, global benefit, and teachability on mobile apps.
"There's a few things that we need them to do," von Ahn stated, highlighting that subjects must attract a significant interest and positively impact the world.
He noted, "Turns out a lot of people want to learn like Pokémon cards. We're not going to do that," reinforcing their criteria against frivolous subjects.
Von Ahn expressed regret over monetizing too late, stating, "I thought making money was evil," emphasizing the company's mission to provide free education.
Read at Business Insider
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