Duolingo is under scrutiny after users reported that the language-learning app used Apple’s Dynamic Island and Live Activity feature to display subscription ads violating the company’s App Store design guidelines. The ads, first spotted on Reddit in early January, promoted Duolingo’s “Super” premium subscription with prompts such as “Claim your Super offer!” and countdown timers that redirected users to paid services when tapped.
Apple’s Human Interface Guidelines clearly prohibit using Live Activities for promotions or advertisements, stating that the feature should display only real-time, event-related information such as deliveries, rides, or sports scores. Apps that misuse this functionality risk removal from the App Store.
User frustration mounted quickly on social media platforms, with some calling for Apple to take disciplinary action against the app. “This behavior should not be tolerated. No one wants live activities to be turned into ad banners,” one user wrote on Reddit. Others noted that force-closing the app was the only way to dismiss the persistent promotional banner.
Reports suggest the company quietly withdrew the feature after complaints surfaced. MacRumors verified that the ads could not be replicated as of January 2, indicating Duolingo had likely reverted the experiment. Both Apple and Duolingo have declined to comment publicly on the issue. The app remains available on the App Store but faces renewed debate over responsible advertising practices within iOS’s user interface.
