If you’re curious about learning chess but don’t know where to begin, there’s exciting news! Duolingo, well-known for its engaging approach to language education, is introducing chess tutorials to its iPhone application soon. Users will be able to familiarize themselves with the movement of each piece and gradually explore various strategies, all while navigating through Duolingo’s intuitive interface.

The chess functionality will be available to a select group of iOS users on Tuesday, April 22. Subsequently, it will roll out to additional English-speaking iPhone users over the following weeks. Plans for other platforms and versions for users who speak languages other than English are also in the pipeline, as confirmed by Duolingo.

This new initiative is not Duolingo’s first venture outside traditional language lessons. The platform has included math and music education since 2023. The math components are particularly effective for revisiting multiplication skills, while the music offerings introduce fundamental music theory and incorporate rhythm-based activities with popular tunes.

The introduction of chess lessons marks a shift toward teaching a game rather than simply focusing on academics or languages. “Chess aligns perfectly with the Duolingo ethos,” stated Luis von Ahn, co-founder and CEO of Duolingo, in an official announcement. “It enhances cognitive abilities, is richly strategic, and, like learning a language, improves with practice.”

Duolingo aims to make chess more approachable for newcomers, beginning with lessons that cover the basics of movement for each piece, followed by tactics and deeper strategic elements. The structure of the lessons includes short puzzles; for instance, learners may be challenged to achieve checkmate in one move. Additionally, there are mini-games and full-length matches, where players can compete against Oscar, the charming cartoon character known for his distinctive deep voice, who has been a staple in Duolingo’s language programs.