SpeakBUDDY Ltd. (head office: Chuo-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Takeshi Tateishi) announced that it will begin recruiting participants for “Start with SpeakBUDDY! Six-Month English Conversation Improvement Challenge,” an English learning support project using the company’s AI English conversation app, “AI English Conversation SpeakBUDDY.” Background: Creating a chain of challenges in English learning, starting with accessible AI conversation practice “AI English Conversation SpeakBUDDY” is an AI-powered English conversation app that lets users practice with AI characters called “AI Buddies,” making it easy to learn English conversation anytime, anywhere, and enjoyably. The app offers lessons for a wide range of situations, including business, travel, and daily life, and is used by learners from beginner to advanced levels. Through this project, the company will leverage the app’s accessibility and ease of continued learning to support people who feel that English could expand their opportunities but have not yet taken the first step, as well as those who want to make a serious effort to study English this time. Participants will receive free access to “AI English Conversation SpeakBUDDY” for six months. By sharing participants’ learning progress and growth stories, the project also aims to encourage others who struggle with English learning and create a “chain of challenges” that inspires people to think, “I want to try learning English too.” Application overview for “Start with SpeakBUDDY! Six-Month English Conversation Improvement Challenge” There are no restrictions on English conversation level or learning purpose. The project welcomes applicants from beginners to advanced learners who want to study English for work, hobbies, travel, academics, or other motivations. Details on the flow from entry to the start of learning, as well as the application form, are available on the project’s special website. Application period: Thursday, May 14, 2026 to Wednesday, May 20, 2026 at 2