Ex-Google Innovators Unveil AI Learning App to Captivate Young Minds
In a noteworthy development in educational technology, three former Google engineers have introduced an innovative app named Sparkli, designed to engage children through interactive AI-driven experiences. Sparkli aims to overcome the limitations of existing educational tools, which often lack the captivating interactivity that modern learners crave.
Founded last year by Lax Poojary, Lucie Marchand, and Myn Kang, Sparkli addresses a common challenge parents face: providing enriching answers to their children’s curiosities. Drawing from their experiences at Google’s Area 120, where they previously co-created ventures such as the travel app Touring Bird and social commerce platform Shoploop, the trio is leveraging their tech backgrounds to enhance children’s learning.
The Sparkli app allows children to explore a variety of subjects, from financial literacy to entrepreneurship, through what the founders call an “AI-powered learning expedition.” Users can choose predefined topics or generate personalized questions, leading to an enriched learning pathway. Each topic includes multimedia elements—audio, video, images, quizzes, and interactive games—to create a holistic educational experience.
Key Features of Sparkli:
– AI-generated content that updates in real-time based on user inquiries.
– Daily topic highlights to encourage continuous learning.
– A choice of auditory or textual information formats.
– Adventure-style learning with no pressure of right or wrong answers.
Regarding educational principles, Sparkli’s development was guided by experts in educational science and teaching, aiming to ensure that the app meets pedagogical standards. While the app focuses on safety, it also emphasizes emotional intelligence, particularly in addressing sensitive topics like self-harm.
Currently in a pilot phase with an institution that supports over 100,000 students, Sparkli targets children aged 5 to 12. Teachers can monitor student progress and assign homework, making it an integrated tool for classroom learning. The app incorporates engaging elements such as rewards for completing lessons and exploration quests tailored to each child’s avatar, inspired by successful models like Duolingo.
The response from pilot schools has been overwhelmingly positive, with teachers effectively using Sparkli to promote interactive discussions and deeper understanding among students.
Sparkli is planning to collaborate with schools globally in the coming months and aims to release a consumer version by mid-2026. Backed by $5 million in pre-seed funding from Swiss venture firm Founderful, the initiative marks a significant investment in edtech innovation. Founder Lukas Weder highlighted the need for immersive learning experiences that go beyond traditional curricula, underscoring Sparkli’s potential to reshape educational engagement for today’s youth.
This article was first published on January 22, 2026.
