Key Takeaway: AI apps like ELSA Speak and Preply AI excel at pronunciation drills and convenient practice for beginners, but they can't replicate the cultural understanding, empathy, and relationship-building that create real fluency. The most effective approach combines AI for structured practice with human conversation for confidence and connection.

You're considering AI for English speaking practice. Smart choice! The technology has improved dramatically, and apps like ELSA Speak, JumpSpeak, Preply AI, and Promova promise convenient, judgment-free practice anytime you want.

But after testing these apps ourselves and hearing from thousands of women who were equally excited about AI practice, we've discovered limitations that frustrate learners who are already past the beginner stage.

This article shares insights from real users and experienced fluency coaches to help you make an informed decision about when AI helps—and when you need something more.

Why do English learners choose AI speaking apps?

Privacy, convenience, and instant feedback make AI apps appealing. No scheduling with other people. No embarrassment about mistakes. Just you and your AI speaking partner.

And those benefits are real. But here's what most intermediate learners discover: the real breakthrough moment isn't when AI stops correcting your grammar—it's when someone from another country laughs at your joke, shares advice about navigating their culture, or connects you with a job opportunity.

That's the power of human connection. And it's what AI fundamentally cannot provide.

What Are the Main Benefits of AI English Apps?

AI speaking apps offer genuine advantages, especially for beginners:

Privacy & Safety – No judgment. No embarrassment. Practice from your couch in your pajamas.

Convenience – Practice anytime, anywhere, without coordinating with others.

Consistency – Your AI partner is never tired or impatient and almost always friendly.

Instant Feedback – Spot issues with pronunciation and grammar right away.

Structured Learning – Choose from a range of lessons and scenarios that progress step by step.

The technology is impressive. Realistic video characters that speak to you, real-time assessment of your speech and pronunciation, feedback delivered in micro-seconds. These are powerful benefits when you're just starting out.

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Can AI Apps Help You Become Fluent in English?

Short answer: AI apps can improve your pronunciation and grammar, but they struggle to develop the spontaneous conversation skills, cultural awareness, and confidence you need for real-world fluency.

We analyzed thousands of reviews across platforms like Trustpilot and ESL forums and discovered consistent patterns once learners reach intermediate level:

The AI Progress Plateau

"I was improving quickly at first, but then it became boring."

Early on, AI apps feel amazing—like rapid progress is possible. And for beginners, this is true. But for intermediate and advanced learners, progress slows dramatically because the lessons aren't tailored to your unique history, goals, or interests.

Real fluency requires exposure to unexpected topics, diverse accents, and the unpredictability of natural conversation. AI operates within scripted boundaries.

Why AI Practice Doesn't Transfer to Real Conversations

"I can talk to the app, but when someone I meet in real life asks me a question, it's not the same."

The comfort of AI conversations doesn't carry over to the spontaneous, unpredictable reality of human interactions. Even as the technology improves and feels more conversational, it never feels like talking with a real person (because it isn't).

And that matters when you're preparing for job interviews, client meetings, or making friends in a new country. You need practice that mirrors real-world pressure and dynamics.

The Problem With Constant Corrections

"The corrections make it feel like a test, not a conversation."

Instant feedback is useful, but our research with Hey Lady! members shows that too much correction kills conversational flow. Real conversations aren't about being perfect in every sentence. They're about being understood.

In fact, constant correction actually decreases confidence over time. True progress happens when learners let go of the belief that they need to be perfect before they can speak freely—or fluently.

What Are the Hidden Limitations of AI Speaking Practice?

On the surface, AI feels impressive. But when you look closer, what's missing is exactly what makes conversations meaningful: being human.

Cultural Understanding AI Can't Provide

AI is "culturally blind." Your AI partner doesn't have a story. It can't laugh with you about traditions from home or share what it feels like to celebrate a holiday abroad. It doesn't know what it's like to navigate cultural misunderstandings or discover common ground through your differences.

One Hey Lady! member who used AI apps for six months before joining our community shared: "The app helped me practice speaking more often, which I appreciated. But it couldn't teach me why my Australian colleagues laughed when I said something completely normal in my language. That only clicked when I talked with women who had lived through those moments."

Why Empathy and Emotions Matter in Real Conversations

AI never feels nervous before a job interview or proud after speaking up in a meeting. It doesn't understand what it's like to be left out of a conversation or the joy of finally being included.

Its words of encouragement, comfort, or celebration are programmed, not felt. Emotionally, it's flat.

Real people bring lived experience. They can say, "I've been there—here's what helped me" with authenticity that AI can mimic but never truly offer.

The Difference Between Scripted AI and Living Conversations

Real conversations are alive. They take unexpected turns, shift topics when you find a connection, include interruptions, pauses, laughter.

AI follows the script of what it predicts it should say. Real people don't (and that's a good thing). This spontaneity is where you develop the reflexes needed for confident English speaking.

Group Dynamics: Meetings, Families, and Social Events

Here's something you may not have considered: AI is one-on-one. But life isn't.

Your work meetings, family dinners, and social events involve groups. Each person has their own personality, tone, and expectations. Navigating that dynamic—reading the room, knowing when to speak up, managing interruptions—requires experience.

That's where real confidence grows. And it's impossible to develop in a one-on-one AI environment.

Why Relationship-Building Is Impossible With AI

There's a reason the "A" in "AI" stands for artificial. The most powerful part of speaking English isn't saying words correctly—it's forming bonds: trust, friendship, connection.

AI may be intelligent, but it resets every time you log in. It doesn't truly remember your story, your goals, or your personal growth. Humans do.

As one AI app user wrote: "This app definitely helped me to speak English more often. I like the convenience. But it didn't really help me to connect with people. It didn't know or remember me."

What About Technology Problems and Pricing?

Since AI is still new, reviewers frequently mention tech issues including errors in voice recognition, delays in receiving corrections, or the app "not understanding you." This will improve over time, but right now it's another layer between you and your journey to fluent conversation.

We also note that most AI apps use tiered or layered pricing. As an intermediate to advanced English learner, the free or low-cost tiers probably won't offer what you need in an AI coach or speaking partner. Premium features often cost $20-50+ per month.

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What Can Human Connection Offer That AI Cannot?

Here at Hey Lady! we're not "anti-AI." Many of our members used AI apps successfully before joining us and even continue using them alongside real conversation practice.

But there's a gap between AI practice and real-world success:

• The job interview you want to ace
• The meaningful friendships you hope to build
• The influence you want to have in professional situations
• The confidence to express yourself authentically to support others

These require human skills that AI simply can't offer because, well, it's not human.

Connection Gives Our Lives Meaning

Most English learners spend years inwardly focused, obsessed with mistakes, thinking they must be "perfect" while running towards the illusion that speaking "like a native" is the ultimate goal.

Until they discover they were completely missing the point.

As we've seen with thousands of women we've worked with—it's the moment they experience true connection that they realize learning English isn't about "English" itself, but something so much more important.

s from the moment they experience 'true connection' that they realise that learning English isn’t about ‘English’ itself, but something so much more important. 

The 7 Advantages of Human Connection for English Learners

1. Empathy

Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another. We develop empathy through lived experiences, environments, social structures, and relationships.

If you've experienced the emotions of losing a loved one, you can truly empathize with someone going through the same experience today. AI can predict what to say and may even sound convincing, but it's not authentic—it's artificial.

2. Cultural Understanding

Conversations with people from different backgrounds help you navigate cultural differences. Cultural exchange—learning how others live, how they see the world, the values you share, and the contrasts in your worldviews—is one of the most human experiences you can have.

You can't learn from AI what it feels like to raise children across two cultures, or how to politely disagree in a British office versus an American one.

3. Meaningful Conversations

Discussions about topics you care about with people who share your interests: career goals, cultural experiences, personal challenges. Their life experiences can help shape yours.

You can't ask AI: "What was it like when you had your first child? How did it affect your career? Would you do anything differently if you could go back in time?"

4. Social Feedback

Real conversation practice develops social skills in English. You'll get feedback in many different ways—not just "right" or "wrong" but insight into how you come across as a person by experiencing how others respond to you.

Did they laugh at your joke? Were they moved by your words? Confused, enlightened, angered, or surprised? This feedback is invisible in AI interactions.

5. Relationship Building

Every conversation is a chance to learn how to connect with others in English. As you get to know someone, the relationship builds on previous conversations, creating trust and familiarity that makes communication easier and more personally rewarding over time.

This continuity of relationship is what turns language practice into genuine fluency.

6. Real-World Preparation

Practice with the spontaneity, interruptions, and emotions of authentic conversations. Imagine the advantage you give yourself when you can communicate confidently with people from different countries around the world who are sharing their perspectives on the same topic.

That's preparation AI simply cannot simulate.

7. New Life Opportunities

English opens your world to new possibilities: knowledge, art, literature, music, independent travel. But when you add connection? Imagine having friends in other countries that you can travel to meet. Or someone who connects you with a new job opportunity online.

Connection creates opportunity in ways AI simply can't.

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Frequently Asked Questions About AI English Apps

What Is the Best AI App for English Speaking Practice?

Popular apps include ELSA Speak, JumpSpeak, Promova, Speechling, and BoldVoice. They provide structured lessons, pronunciation feedback, and one-on-one conversation practice that work well through the beginner stages.

Beyond intermediate level, there's no clear winner because the fundamental limitation isn't the quality of the app—it's the format itself.

How Good Is the Technology in AI Speaking Apps?

AI has improved dramatically, but reviews still mention glitches, lag, or answers that don't fit the conversation. This can make practice feel robotic at times.

While the tech is impressive, it isn't the same as the flow of a real conversation. Depending on how far you've progressed, this may or may not matter to you.

Can AI Apps Help Me Prepare for a Job Interview?

They can help you rehearse answers and polish your pronunciation. You may be able to practice answering questions specific to your industry.

But real interviews have an emotional layer: nerves, interruptions, unexpected questions, reading the interviewer's body language. Practicing with humans is still the best way to build confidence under pressure.

Will AI Replace English Teachers?

It's unlikely AI will completely replace English teachers. But it can make their repetitive work more efficient and readily available.

Many teachers are already exploring ways to create AI versions of themselves for drills, pronunciation, and practice on demand. But AI can't provide empathy, cultural context, or genuine mentorship. Teachers (and peers) bring human connection that supports your journey in ways AI is unlikely to ever replicate.

Can AI Apps Help Me Sound More Natural in English?

It depends. AI can correct pronunciation and grammar according to the language model you've chosen (UK, US, Australian, etc.).

But "sounding natural" comes from rhythm, tone, humor, and cultural awareness. These are best learned through conversations with real people who can show you how language adapts to context.

Is Practising English With AI Effective?

Yes, for specific goals. AI is effective for:

• Building speaking confidence as a beginner
• Practicing pronunciation in a private environment
• Drilling specific vocabulary or grammar patterns
• Familiarizing yourself with common phrases

Less effective for:

• Developing conversational fluency and spontaneity
• Building cultural awareness and social skills
• Preparing for high-pressure situations like interviews
• Creating authentic relationships that open opportunities

How Long Does It Take to Become Fluent With AI Apps?

There's no fixed timeline because "fluency" means different things to different people. AI apps can help you progress from beginner to intermediate in 6-12 months with consistent practice.

However, reaching advanced conversational fluency—where you can express complex ideas, navigate cultural nuances, and feel genuinely confident in any situation—requires human interaction. No app can replicate the depth of learning that comes from real relationships and authentic conversations.

What's Better for English Learning: AI or Conversation Practice?

Neither is "better"—they serve different purposes.

Think of AI as a gym where you practice form and build foundational strength. Human conversation is the sport itself—where you apply everything you've learned under real-world conditions.

The most effective approach uses both strategically.

When Should You Use AI vs. Human Practice for English?

When AI Practice Makes Sense

If you want to get comfortable speaking English aloud, get instant feedback on pronunciation, or practice predictable role-plays to familiarize yourself with vocabulary and grammar, AI can absolutely help you.

Best use cases for AI:

• Daily pronunciation drills (5-10 minutes)
• Rehearsing specific phrases before important events
• Building courage to speak aloud if you're very shy
• Practicing during odd hours when humans aren't available
• Learning specific accent patterns (American, British, Australian)

The best way to embrace AI is to consider it as a tool that can help you with specific aspects of your English practice.

When You Need Real Human Conversation to Grow

If you want to be able to talk to anyone about anything and have the skills to build relationships, advance your career, and express yourself with authentic confidence, you need real people.

Real conversation is essential for:

• Developing spontaneous speaking skills
• Building cultural awareness and sensitivity
• Preparing for job interviews and important meetings
• Learning to navigate group conversations
• Creating authentic relationships that lead to opportunities
• Gaining confidence through genuine connection

As any experienced fluency coach will tell you, it's critical that you expose yourself—and gain experience—speaking in a variety of different contexts, about different topics, with different people.

The Optimal Strategy: Combining AI and Human Practice

Use AI for: Convenience, private practice, pronunciation exercises, vocabulary drills, and building initial courage.

Use real conversations for: Building fluency, confidence, cultural understanding, and the ability to connect authentically.

Together, they can complement each other. But AI can't replace the dynamic experience of human practice.

A Different Approach: English Speaking Practice With Real People

At the end of the day, there is a meaningful difference between learning to communicate with artificial intelligence and learning to communicate with people.

Real conversation practice is a completely different form of learning. It's a more powerful one too—more learning happens because it's a truly dynamic, multi-layered human experience.

If you're looking for a more human-centered approach to building your spoken English confidence and fluency, online communities are a fantastic alternative to AI speaking apps.

Hey Lady! – A Safe Online Community for Women

Hey Lady! is an online English-speaking community created especially for women. We've helped thousands of women from over 120 countries build fluency and confidence through meaningful conversations.

What makes us different:

✨ Real conversations, not scripts – Talk about topics you care about with women who share your interests and challenges

✨ Safe, judgment-free environment – Practice without embarrassment in a supportive community designed for women

✨ Diverse perspectives – Connect with women from 120+ countries and learn about different cultures, careers, and life experiences

✨ Flexible options – Join peer-to-peer conversation sessions or coach-led events that fit your schedule

✨ Proven methodology – Our Fluency Framework helps you move from hesitant speaker to confident communicator

Join Us for a Free 7-Day Trial and Experience the Power of Human Connection

Start your FREE 7-day trial today. No minimum commitment. Cancel anytime.

Experience the difference of speaking English with real people in real conversations.

Because language is about connection, not perfection.

Final Thoughts: What You Should Know Before Choosing AI for English Practice

AI apps are useful tools for certain aspects of language learning, especially for beginners who need structured practice and pronunciation feedback. They offer convenience and privacy that can help you build initial confidence.

But here's what we've learned from working with thousands of English learners: the women who achieve real fluency and confidence aren't the ones who mastered AI conversations. They're the ones who took the risk to connect with real people, embraced imperfection, and discovered that language is ultimately about human connection.

If you're serious about using English to build relationships, advance your career, and create opportunities in your life, you need more than an app. You need authentic conversations with people who will challenge you, support you, and connect with you in ways that AI never can.

The choice is yours. But now you know what to expect—and what's possible when you prioritize human connection in your English learning journey.

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