In brief: US-based AI language learning app nets $7m to expand in Asia

ELSA, a language learning mobile app, announced that it has raised US$7 million in a series A round led by Google’s AI-focused venture fund, Gradient Ventures. Existing investors Monk’s Hill Ventures and SOSV also participated.

Source: Press release

ELSA, which stands for English Language Speech Assistant, will use the funding to accelerate its growth in new markets, including Japan, Indonesia, and India. The company is based in San Francisco, with offices in Portugal and Vietnam.

The ELSA app helps English language learners globally to improve their English-speaking ability. It uses “deep learning and AI to detect people’s pronunciation mistakes with [over 95 percent] accuracy,” the company said in a statement.

The app listens to the way users pronounce words, sentences, or conversations to pinpoint exact errors and provide accurate real-time feedback on their mistakes, with specific suggestions on how users can improve.

ELSA plans to build more advanced AI capabilities to evaluate other speech elements such as rhythm and intonation. It will also introduce new social features to foster community-based learning later this year.

The app is currently running a pilot educational program in Vietnam. If successful, the company will open a platform to allow English teachers and schools to integrate ELSA into their curriculum.