Why is it that we dislike the Owl? (Duolingo)

Over here in Japan itself, for English learners, Duolingo seems to be VERY popular. Which got me thinking… why is it that this sub seems to have a vendetta, or more specifically strongly discourages it?

Full disclaimer: I did NOT start at the beginner level- I'm intermediate level, and so i started higher. I wanted to give it a go, just to see what all the fuss is about.

Now, I just started today, and it doesn't seem… terrible. For specifics, I'm starting at the Past Negatives level. I have to recognize words, put sentences together, and even some speaking. Sure, it's far from perfect, but no app is perfect.

So… why the hate? Is it just a typical Reddit circlejerk? I think the last thing I saw was about hating the AI tutor… and I honestly won't touch ANY app tutor. Otherwise, so far it seems pretty ok.

by the_card_guy