However, in practice, most language apps are based around messenger services
The big benefit of language exchange apps, in theory, is that they get you speaking to a native user of your target language. So really, you’re getting writing practice, rather than that all-important speaking practice.
The Mixxer is a website designed to combat this problem. Users have to connect to their accounts to Skype straight away. You can message other students before video chatting with them, of course, but it’s for people who are looking for live speaking practice rather than someone to text.
It was created by a teacher of Japanese from a college in Pennsylvania, USA. On the one hand, this means that the website is a run without a budget. This means it can’t attract millions of members, Aisle profile search or moderate users to behave professionally. On the other hand, it was created purely for the needs of language students, with no business goals to prioritize. There are even free conversation starters to help users structure their sessions productively.
Are you uncomfortable jumping into video chat without screening your language exchange partner first?