Social language learning apps like Tandem provide an effective way for students to gain fluency in a new language through real-time engagement (RTE) with native speakers. These apps offer benefits such as practice, immersion, access to foreign language speakers, and building community. Virtual social language learning requires RTE technology to power video, voice, and messaging functionality, ensuring seamless communication globally. In the future, innovations like real-time transcription and translation, AI chatbots, and VR with avatars may further enhance the experience for language learners.