5 Best Free Apps to Learn New Skills on Your iPhone

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Your iPhone can be a gateway to learning new things, whether it’s a language, cooking techniques, or even creative skills like photography. Here are five of the best apps to get started—each one offering unique features that make learning engaging, easy, and fun. Best of all, they’re free to download!

Table of Contents

1. Duolingo – Learn Languages with Gamified Lessons

What Makes It Unique: Duolingo stands out for its interactive, game-like approach to language learning. The app uses bite-sized lessons and rewards, making the process feel less like studying and more like play. With over 30 languages to choose from, Duolingo is ideal for anyone looking to start from scratch or improve existing language skills.

  • Key Features:
    • Gamified lessons with points and badges to keep you motivated.
    • Personalized lessons that adapt to your learning pace.
    • Audio-based exercises for practicing pronunciation.
  • Price: Free (with an optional paid version for additional features)
  • Download Link: Duolingo on the App Store

2. YouTube – Learn Practically Anything Through Video Tutorials

What Makes It Unique: YouTube is not just for entertainment—it’s a vast library of educational content on nearly every topic imaginable, from cooking to exercise to arts and crafts. The range of content makes it perfect for people who prefer visual learning, with videos from experts and hobbyists alike.

  • Key Features:
    • A huge selection of free tutorials and instructional videos.
    • Options to save and organize videos in playlists for easy access.
    • Ability to pause, rewind, and watch videos at your own pace.
  • Price: Free (with ads; premium subscription available)
  • Download Link: YouTube on the App Store

3. Skillshare – Explore Creativity with Classes on Art, Writing, and More


What Makes It Unique: Skillshare specializes in creative skills like art, photography, and writing. The app provides thousands of high-quality video lessons taught by professionals, with a focus on hands-on projects and practical learning. While Skillshare offers a premium subscription, there is plenty of free content to help you get started.

  • Key Features:
    • Short, project-based lessons led by experts in creative fields.
    • Hands-on projects that help you put your new skills into practice.
    • Categories for everything from drawing to productivity and lifestyle skills.
  • Price: Free (with optional premium subscription)
  • Download Link: Skillshare on the App Store

4. Coursera – Access University-Quality Courses from Top Institutions

What Makes It Unique: Coursera offers a vast selection of courses created by leading universities and companies, allowing you to access quality education from home. With beginner-friendly courses on everything from business to the arts, Coursera is a great option for structured learning.

  • Key Features:
    • Courses created by respected institutions like Yale, Google, and Stanford.
    • Video lessons, quizzes, and assignments to reinforce learning.
    • Options to earn certificates in specific subjects if desired.
  • Price: Free (with optional paid courses and certificates)
  • Download Link: Coursera on the App Store

5. Khan Academy – Free Courses on a Variety of Subjects for All Levels

What Makes It Unique: Khan Academy is known for its high-quality lessons in math, science, history, and more, designed for learners of all ages. The app is completely free, making it a fantastic resource for anyone looking to deepen their knowledge on a budget.

  • Key Features:
    • Comprehensive video lessons across academic and general-interest topics.
    • Interactive exercises and quizzes to test your understanding.
    • Track your progress with achievements as you complete courses.
  • Price: Free
  • Download Link: Khan Academy on the App Store

Final Thoughts

Learning new skills has never been easier with these free apps. Each one brings unique features, from Duolingo’s fun language games to Coursera’s university-quality courses. Start by downloading the one that matches your interests, and enjoy discovering new skills at your own pace!