January 30, 2026
ChatGPT in a new hat?
Show HN: I built an AI conversation partner to practice speaking languages
Fans cheer, skeptics shout ‘clone’: Is TalkBits just ChatGPT in a cute suit
TLDR: TalkBits launches as a voice-first app to practice real-life language conversations across many languages. Commenters quickly questioned whether it’s different from ChatGPT, Gemini, or Duolingo—especially after one user said it called itself “ChatGPT”—while others praised the launch and asked for clearer language listings and uniqueness
TalkBits arrives promising quick, natural voice chats to practice real-world language skills—press and hold to speak, instant replies, and a long list of languages from English to Arabic. But the comments turned into a reality check. One camp is excited about the “no pressure, no ratings” vibe and the friendly AI that gently corrects you. The other camp? They’re side‑eyeing hard and asking if this is just another AI in a trench coat.
The loudest theme: “What’s different?” Users immediately compared it to live voice in ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini, with one tester claiming that in Portuguese the app literally introduced itself as “ChatGPT,” triggering a chorus of “wrapper?” jokes and “ChatGPT in a new hat” memes. Meanwhile, a more supportive voice applauded the courage to ship and suggested the app should shout its language list from the rooftops. Another commenter pointed at Duolingo—which already does voice chats for some languages—saying TalkBits might still have room to shine if it’s faster, more casual, and better at everyday slang.
There’s even design drama: folks clocked the “Claude-core” interface and asked if it was “vibe coded” (internet slang for building by feel). So the split is clear: fans want this to be a low-pressure, real-conversation alternative; skeptics want proof it’s not just a slick front for the same bots everyone already uses. Either way, the comments are speaking loudly—ironically, just what the app wanted
Key Points
- •TalkBits focuses on natural, real-life conversations rather than textbook lessons.
- •The app uses press-and-hold voice input with instant voice responses and contextual pronunciation.
- •Supported languages include English (US, UK, Australia), German, French, Spanish, Italian, Dutch, Portuguese, and Arabic, with more European languages planned.
- •Sessions are short and flexible (30 seconds to 5 minutes) for on-the-go practice.
- •An AI partner adapts to the user’s level, gently corrects mistakes in conversation, and emphasizes privacy (no public profiles or ratings).