Busuu, named after an endangered Cameroonian language spoken by just three people, has grown into one of the most recognized language-learning platforms globally. While its origins were rooted in preserving linguistic diversity, Busuu has shifted toward offering major global languages with a practical, conversational approach.

Launched in 2008, Busuu prioritized high-quality, in-house learning material from the start—unlike rivals like Memrise, which leaned heavily on community-generated content. This foundational difference has helped Busuu build a more structured and academically sound curriculum, tailored for real-life use.

Key features such as multi-language learning, grammar review, and access to its full lesson library are reserved for subscribers. Busuu Premium Plus unlocks the full experience…

Today, Busuu Premium stands out by offering personalized study plans, AI-powered grammar tools, and one-to-one live lessons with over 10,000 qualified tutors. It bridges the gap between self-paced learning and guided instruction, giving users more control over their language journey.

While Busuu includes some community features—like native speaker feedback on writing and pronunciation—it shines most when used as a guided tool for fast, effective language acquisition. Its content centers around practical phrases and sentences designed to prepare learners for everyday conversation, particularly useful for travelers and expats.

In a competitive space filled with freemium apps like Duolingo, Busuu still holds its own. Although it offers a free version, key features such as multi-language learning, grammar review, and access to its full lesson library are reserved for subscribers. Busuu Premium unlocks the full experience, providing users with advanced tools to improve their skills at a faster pace.

Busuu’s growth caught the attention of student-focused media platform Chegg, which acquired the company for $436 million in 2021. The acquisition came just as Busuu was planning a potential IPO.