Lino

Concept and Motivation

Lino began as our sandbox for experimenting with an AI language tutor. We wanted a conversational app that adjusts to each learner’s skill level, giving kids and adults a friendly way to practice speaking.

Key Features

The prototype offered an AI chatbot for freeform conversations, custom vocabulary lists with AI suggestions, a quiz mode for drilling saved words, and playful gamification with a streak mascot.

Tech Stack

We built the app in React Native with Supabase on the backend and integrated OpenAI’s API for the tutor persona. Prompt design and cost monitoring were key parts of the process.

Challenges and Competition

Development moved slowly as a side project and the rapid rise of large competitors like Duolingo Max made it difficult to stand out. API costs also proved challenging for a free app.

Lessons Learned

Even though Lino never launched publicly, it taught our team a great deal about mobile development and working with AI services. The experience shapes how we approach new projects today.

Credits

Lino was a collaboration between myself and my friends @Christian and @Dennis