Hi everyone,
I’m a Ukrainian developer currently living in Germany due to the war. As a refugee going through integration courses, I realized one major problem: there isn’t enough speaking practice for migrants learning the local language. To help solve this, I created an Android application called Interlocutor, built to accelerate language integration using conversational AI.
What it does:
The app simulates natural spoken conversations on specific topics using a pseudo-personality driven by OpenAI’s API. Users can practice speaking freely, and the AI responds contextually — not just repeating phrases, but engaging in real dialogue.
There’s also a grammar correction module: if a user makes a mistake, the AI politely corrects them and explains the rule. This creates a loop of practical language immersion that’s both educational and confidence-building.
How OpenAI is used:
- Chat Completion API: for generating realistic and engaging dialog responses
- Whisper (via API): for transcribing user speech to text
- Text-to-Speech (external): for giving voice to the AI character
All processing is done on the backend, and responses are delivered almost in real time. The app supports multiple European languages — not only German.
Recent features:
- Themed modules for job interviews (e.g. C1-level mock interviews using the top 100 HR questions)
- Professional vocabulary sets (accounting, IT, logistics, etc.)
- Plans for a testing module and analytics for corporate clients
Current limitations:
At the moment, it’s available only for Android because I don’t have the resources to publish and maintain an iOS version. As a solo refugee developer, I’m funding API usage out of pocket, and I’ve reached a point where further development and scaling require external support.
My questions:
- Does OpenAI offer any visibility, startup support, or partnership opportunities for ethical and educational projects like this?
- Are there programs or initiatives for developers working on social impact tools?
- I’d love to connect with others doing similar work or hear your suggestions.
Thank you for reading. I believe in the power of this tool to make real change — and with the right support, it could reach thousands more who need it.