'The Reason You Can't Speak English After 10 Years Is Your Mouth': SpeakOz AI App Released for Speaking-Focused Training

Key facts

  • 'The Reason You Can't Speak English After 10 Years Is Your Mouth': SpeakOz AI App Released for Speaking-Focused Training
  • Universal Kaihatsu Co., Ltd. has released 'SpeakOz,' a new AI language learning app from its 'English Avenue' school. It addresses the 'can't speak' challenge by shifting from text-based to sound-based learning, treating speaking as 'muscle training for the mouth.'
  • Source: PR Times
  • Date: June 10, 2026

Direct answer

Universal Kaihatsu Co., Ltd. has released 'SpeakOz,' a new AI language learning app from its 'English Avenue' school. It addresses the 'can't speak' challenge by shifting from text-based to sound-based learning, treating speaking as 'muscle training for the mouth.'

Citation
'The Reason You Can't Speak English After 10 Years Is Your Mouth': SpeakOz AI App Released for Speaking-Focused Training (June 10, 2026), PR Times
Source
PR Times
Date
June 10, 2026
Universal Kaihatsu Co., Ltd. has released 'SpeakOz,' a new AI language learning app from its 'English Avenue' school. It addresses the 'can't speak' challenge by shifting from text-based to sound-based learning, treating speaking as 'muscle training for the mouth.'
新製品NQ 80/100出典:PR Times

📋 Article Processing Timeline

  • 📰 Published: June 10, 2026 at 17:04
  • 🔍 Collected: June 10, 2026 at 08:21
  • 🤖 AI Analyzed: June 10, 2026 at 08:27 (5 min after Collected)
English Avenue (based in Meguro, Tokyo; operated by Universal Kaihatsu Co., Ltd.; CEO: Asako Kato) has released 'SpeakOz,' a new AI language learning app designed to solve the long-standing challenge of Japanese learners who can 'read but not speak' English, using the concept of 'muscle training for the mouth.'

This app challenges the conventional wisdom of 'learning English through spelling' by adopting an approach that 'starts with sound without looking at text.' By doing so, it aims to help users acquire natural, native-like pronunciation and English expression capabilities that are not hindered by spelling.

■ Social Problem: 'Why Can't Japanese People Speak English?'
In Japan, there is a common issue where even after studying English for over 10 years and achieving high TOEIC scores, learners cannot speak confidently in actual conversations. This is particularly evident in Q&A sessions following presentations, stemming from habits like 'translation-based thinking' and passive learning focused on simple reading.

SpeakOz focuses on the 'ability to produce language,' sharpening spontaneity by inputting vast amounts of natural English.

■ Solution: The New Concept of 'Speaking = Muscle Training for the Mouth'
The app is designed to cultivate speaking ability by enhancing 'motor memory.' Unlike the general learning process of 'reading text -> understanding -> pronouncing,' it adopts the following process: 'listening to sound -> imitating/reproducing -> checking text only after achieving a score -> understanding content.'

Through this approach, the following effects are expected:
- Acquisition of natural pronunciation unaffected by spelling
- Improved ability to recognize and reproduce sound directly
- Mastery of speed, rhythm, stress, and intonation at the sentence level

■ Key Features
It provides AI-driven speech analysis and scoring (accuracy, fluency, completeness, prosody) and offers visual feedback using IPA.

FAQ

What kind of app is 'SpeakOz'?

Based on the new concept that 'speaking is mouth muscle training,' SpeakOz is a specialized AI English learning app that differs from traditional 'learning from text' methods. It focuses on developing natural pronunciation and reflexive speaking skills by starting with sound without looking at spelling.

Why does it adopt a 'no spelling' learning method?

To prevent Japanese learners from unconsciously being influenced by spelling and producing katakana-like pronunciation, and to improve the ability to reproduce sounds directly (brain and mouth coordination).

What are the main features of 'SpeakOz'?

Key features include AI quantification of pronunciation (accuracy, fluency, completeness, and prosody), visual feedback using IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet), and enhanced spontaneity through extensive input of natural English expressions and sounds.

Who is the developer and operator?

It is operated by 'English Avenue' (operator: Universal Development Co., Ltd., CEO: Asako Kato), based in Minato-ku, Tokyo.

What devices are supported?

It is available on iPhone and iPad.