Drops

Launched in 2015 in Oslo, Norway, Drops was created by a team of language enthusiasts and developers who sought to reimagine language learning by focusing on vocabulary acquisition through short, engaging visual and auditory exercises. The app emerged as an alternative to traditional language learning methods that often emphasize grammar-heavy approaches.

Drops distinguished itself through its minimalist visual design, bite-sized five-minute learning sessions, and gamified experience that makes vocabulary acquisition feel more like play than study. The approach was specifically designed to address the challenge of maintaining consistent practice in language learning by removing barriers to regular engagement.

Since its launch, Drops has expanded to offer instruction in over 45 languages, including endangered languages such as Hawaiian, Maori, and Ainu—reflecting the company's commitment to language preservation alongside practical communication skills. In 2020, Drops was acquired by Kahoot!, another Norwegian educational technology company, allowing for further development of its visual learning methodology while maintaining its distinct approach to language acquisition.