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Technology is changing not only education but also the methods of cheating. If in the past examiners looked for cheat sheets and phones, today one of the main problems is becoming miniature devices that are virtually impossible to notice during testing.
In response to this challenge, Duolingo introduced a new verification system capable of detecting hidden earphones right before taking a language test. Unlike ordinary wireless earphones, such devices are so small that they fit entirely inside the ear canal. Some models are comparable in size to a grain of rice and remain invisible even to experienced observers! Using such devices, test participants can receive hints in real time, listen to pre-recorded answers, or even contact assistants and AI tools outside the exam room.
Duolingo's new solution has been named Ear Scan. The technology is integrated into the Duolingo English Test mobile application. Before the exam begins, the system analyzes the area around the ears using smartphone sensors, then a special algorithm processes the collected data and determines the presence of hidden electronic devices inside the ear canal.
The development was presented at the DETcon London 2026 conference, held at the University of London, dedicated to issues of security and integrity in international education. At the same time, Duolingo published a study on approaches to ensuring the reliability of exam results.
The company is betting on the so-called human-in-the-loop AI model, where artificial intelligence helps identify suspicious situations and possible violations. However, the final decision always rests with prepared specialists and proctors — this approach makes it possible to combine the speed of technology with human judgment and reduce the likelihood of erroneous decisions. For prospective students, this means that online exams continue to evolve and are becoming an increasingly reliable alternative to traditional formats for confirming English proficiency.
The question of the reliability of language exam results is becoming increasingly relevant for universities, especially against the backdrop of tightening requirements for international student admissions and their language proficiency levels.
