If Duolingo keeps crashing, the most common fixes are to update the app, free up storage space on your device, or check your internet connection. These steps address outdated software, resource limitations, and connectivity issues that often cause crashes. Let’s explore each of these solutions, along with other troubleshooting tips to get you back to your language learning.

Common Culprits Behind Duolingo Crashes

1. Outdated App Version

An outdated version of Duolingo can cause crashes due to bugs or incompatibility. Developers regularly release updates to improve performance and fix issues.

Solution:

  • Check for Updates:
    • Android (Google Play Store): Open the Play Store, tap your profile, go to “Manage apps & device,” and check for Duolingo updates.
    • iOS (Apple App Store): Open the App Store, tap your profile, and scroll down to see and install Duolingo updates.

2. Insufficient Device Storage

Duolingo needs sufficient storage to run smoothly. Low storage can lead to crashes and slow performance.

Solution:

  • Free Up Storage Space:
    • Delete Unnecessary Apps: Uninstall apps you no longer use.
    • Clear App Cache: Go to your device’s settings, find “Apps,” select Duolingo, and clear the cache. Note: Clearing data will require you to log back in.
    • Delete Large Files: Remove old photos, videos, or back them up to the cloud.
    • Use Storage Analysis Tools: Use built-in tools (Android) or the “iPhone Storage” section (iOS) to identify space-consuming files.

3. Network Connectivity Issues

Duolingo requires a stable internet connection. Weak Wi-Fi or mobile data can cause crashes.

Solution:

  • Check Your Internet Connection:
    • Restart Your Router: Restart to resolve temporary network issues.
    • Switch Between Wi-Fi and Mobile Data: Test if the issue persists on a different network.
    • Run a Speed Test: Ensure you have sufficient bandwidth.
    • Check Your Wi-Fi Signal Strength: Ensure a strong Wi-Fi signal, or move closer to the router.
    • Consider your DNS server: Switch to a public DNS server like Google DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4).

4. Operating System Incompatibility

An outdated operating system (OS) may not be compatible with newer Duolingo versions.

Solution:

  • Update Your Operating System:
    • Android: Go to Settings > System > System update.
    • iOS: Go to Settings > General > Software Update.

5. App Data Corruption

Corrupted app data can lead to crashes.

Solution:

  • Clear App Data: (This will reset the app and require you to log in again).
    • Android: Go to Settings > Apps > Duolingo > Storage. Tap “Clear data.”
    • iOS: Offload or delete the app and reinstall it. Offloading preserves data; deleting removes everything.

6. Server-Side Issues

Duolingo’s servers might be experiencing issues.

Solution:

  • Check Duolingo’s Status:
    • Social Media: Check Duolingo’s official Twitter or Facebook.
    • Downdetector: Visit Downdetector.com.
  • Patience: Wait for Duolingo to resolve the issue.

7. Background App Interference

Other apps can interfere with Duolingo’s performance.

Solution:

  • Close Background Apps:
    • Android: Use the recent apps button to close unused apps.
    • iOS: Double-tap the home button (or swipe up) and close apps.

Advanced Troubleshooting

If the above solutions haven’t worked:

  • Reinstall Duolingo: This can fix persistent issues.
  • Contact Duolingo Support: Contact Duolingo support for assistance.

By systematically troubleshooting, you should be able to resolve the crashes and get back to learning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does clearing the app cache sometimes fix Duolingo crashes?

Clearing the app cache removes temporary files that may have become corrupted, causing the app to crash. This gives the app a fresh start without deleting your progress.

How do I check if Duolingo is down for everyone, or just me?

You can check Duolingo’s official social media accounts (like Twitter or Facebook) or visit a website like Downdetector.com to see if other users are reporting issues.

Will I lose my progress if I clear the app data or reinstall Duolingo?

Clearing app data will reset the app and require you to log back in, but your progress is typically saved to your Duolingo account. Reinstalling the app should also not affect your saved progress as long as you log in with the same account.