Features & Capabilities

Since 2009, linguistica has produced weekly podcasts with news, conversation and culture in intermediate Spanish, French, Italian and German. Hosted by native speakers, the stories are presented at a slow pace to help you improve comprehension.

The free app offers two news stories per language each week, with no payment and no sign-up required. It’s recommended by major outlets like The Guardian, The Economist and The Washington Post, and you can study on the go with bite-sized lessons.

User Growth & Download Statistics

By:
Linguistica 360
Rating:
4.50
(54)
Version:
2.0.3 Last updated: 2026-01-19
Version code:
881577441
Creation date:
2019-05-02
Compatible devices:
Size:
43.85MB
URLs:
Privacy policy
Full description:
See detailed description
Source:
Apple Apps Store
Data ingested on:
2026-06-12
Compare stats and ranking:

Ranking

Contact the developer

Chrome-Stats does not own this Apple app. Please use these information below to contact the Apple app developer.
Developed by:
Linguistica 360
Apple Apps Store
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/linguistica/id1460842051

User Reviews

Reviews consistently praise the transcript-based learning, built-in translations, and tap-to-translate features, plus engaging, news-driven content that supports DLPT-style prep. Users also value a simple, well-made interface. However, recurring concerns include political bias in coverage, inconsistent offline playback, and having to use the web for many features. Some note non-native accents in voices, and several want more podcast content. Overall, the app is effective for building comprehension and vocabulary, with caveats about offline reliability, bias, and feature integration.
Pros
  • Transcript-based learning with built-in translations, phrase explanations, and tap-to-translate support.
  • Engaging, relevant news content that supports language learning and DLPT-style prep; pleasant readers.
  • Simple, well-made, easy-to-use interface.
  • Offline listening/downloads available (recent updates enable downloading entire episodes for later listening).
  • DLPT/prep usefulness for intermediate learners and others using news as a learning tool.
Cons
  • Political bias or liberal-leaning content; concerns about accuracy and sources.
  • Offline playback can be unreliable; downloads may not always play without Internet in some versions.
  • Requires visiting a web page for many features; in-app integration is limited.
  • Non-native accents in narration and variable voice quality; preference for native speakers.
  • Desire for more podcast content / episodes.
Recent reviews
News in Slow French is a worthwhile addition to your language-learning routine, but it’s not without its flaws. The Good. Learning a language while reading the news keeps things interesting. The app lets you listen to the news in French while following along with a written transcript and it highlights key vocabulary with translations to build your vocabulary. With beginner, intermediate and advanced levels, you can challenge yourself as your comprehension improves. The Bad. The app’s functionality is basic and occasionally clunky. You can “download” lessons, but they won’t play without an Internet connection—a major flaw that defeats the purpose of offline listening. Forget about using it on a plane or out on a trail run. The Ugly. In classic French fashion, the podcast hosts love political commentary. Unfortunately, they have little grasp of U.S. politics and culture, and nearly every episode features one or two stories relying on vague sources to justify sweeping, inaccurate generalizations about Americans. Bottom Line. Despite its drawbacks, News in Slow French can be a helpful learning tool. If you can overlook the political bias, it’s an often-enjoyable way to strengthen your French comprehension.
by CB*****, 2025-11-10

Simple app. Solid news stories
by Ca*****, 2024-01-28

One of my favorite ways to learn/listen to Italian! Keep it up! Only complaint is I wish there was more podcasts!
by Bl*****, 2022-09-15
View all user reviews ›

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