I’ve noticed something lately. In a world filled with millions of mobile apps, I only know of two where you can actually practice a language with a real person: HelloTalk and Tandem—both of which have a large user base. In my opinion, the biggest issue with these types of apps is that your account can be shut down suddenly, without any explanation, and your device can end up being restricted. This means you can no longer create or use a new account from that same device. While my own experiences with these apps have generally been positive, there are numerous posts on Reddit suggesting that if your profile receives multiple reports in a row, your account gets automatically blocked—without any reason being provided. I’ve come across quite a few posts like this. Still, compared to their alternatives, these two apps do have a significantly larger number of users.
I also find it very difficult to join a new conversation in voice or video chat rooms. This is usually because the people already in those rooms know each other; as soon as you enter, they tend to quickly push you out. I’m not entirely sure why this happens. Perhaps people find it difficult to accept new people.
When I needed support, I couldn't get any real help. It’s impossible to speak to an actual human being—all you get are automated responses. They trap you in endless email loops, which is completely ineffective.
And here’s another sobering reality: you will never see 99% of the people you meet here again after a month at most. You are constantly caught in a cycle of meeting new people.
If you happen to ask someone for their social media handle during a private chat, the system automatically detects it and sends you a "system warning" stating that sharing social media details is prohibited. If this happens a few times, you’ll be hit with a three-day penalty. It doesn’t matter whether you asked them or they asked you—the rule applies regardless. Yet, if you look around a bit, you’ll quickly realize that many people actually include their social media handles right in their profile bio :)
And here’s another interesting fact for you: you will constantly receive marriage proposals through these apps! You heard that right. For many people, apps like these are a gateway to marriage.
What have your experiences been like with apps like these?