Sick duolingo app icon : Why Did the Duolingo App Icon Change to a Sick-Looking Owl? If you’ve noticed your Duolingo app icon looking a bit under the weather lately, you’re not alone. The normally chipper Duolingo owl has taken on a sickly appearance, causing quite a stir among users on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit.
Many users speculated that Duolingo was stalking them, as the icon change often coincided with their own bouts of illness. However, the truth is much simpler: Duolingo intentionally changed the icon to draw attention to the app and spark conversation.
This isn’t the first time Duolingo has pulled such a stunt. In October 2023, the company changed the icon to make it appear as if Duo was melting.
Some have suggested that the melting icon would have been more appropriate for the summer months, while saving the sick look for the colder seasons.
If you’re a Super Duolingo or Duolingo Max subscriber, you have the option to replace the sick icon with either the Super or Max icon.
Alternatively, Streak Society members can switch to the Streak Society icon.
Don’t feel bad about changing it if you prefer not to see a sniffly owl every time you open your phone.
One user even joked about having a 100-day streak of not using the app and thought the icon change was a targeted punishment, while another pointed out the potential for a bird flu joke.
Despite the lighthearted reactions, it’s clear that Duolingo’s icon change has succeeded in capturing the attention of its users.So, if you’re wondering why your Duolingo app icon looks a bit under the weather, rest assured that it’s all part of the company’s marketing strategy to keep users engaged and talking about the app. Whether you find it amusing or unsettling, one thing is certain: Duolingo knows how to keep its users on their toes.
