Former Meta AI VP Launches Sizzle: An Innovative AI-Powered Learning App and Chatbot

Founded by Jerome Pesenti, the former Vice President of AI at Meta, Sizzle is a free AI-powered learning app designed to provide step-by-step solutions for math equations and word problems. Recently, the company introduced four innovative features: a grading system, a step regeneration function, multiple answer options for individual problems, and the ability to upload photos of assignments.

Sizzle functions similarly to other math solver platforms like Photomath and Symbolab but extends its capabilities to tackle word problems in subjects such as physics, chemistry, and biology. It caters to learners at every level, from middle school through high school, including AP courses and college.

While many students use AI learning apps for quick answers without engaging with the material, Sizzle sets itself apart by acting as a tutoring chatbot. Rather than simply providing answers, it guides students through each step of solving problems. Users can ask the AI questions to grasp concepts more thoroughly.

“After leaving Meta, I wanted to utilize AI to genuinely assist students and learners from all backgrounds, regardless of their school, resources, or challenges,” said Pesenti, who prior focused on enhancing safety in Meta products using AI. “I recognized that the applications of AI have not yet made a significant positive impact on people's lives. Transforming learning with AI presents an opportunity to change that narrative.”

Sizzle harnesses third-party large language models, including those from OpenAI while developing its own models in-house. According to Pesenti, the AI boasts an impressive accuracy rate of 90%.

The newly launched "Grade Your Homework" feature allows users to upload photos of their completed assignments, receiving tailored feedback on their solutions. If a mistake is made, Sizzle encourages users to retry and provides guidance throughout the process.

The "Try a Different Approach" feature enables users to suggest alternative methods for solving problems. Users can briefly explain their desired approach, prompting the AI to regenerate a step-by-step solution that aligns with their understanding.

Additionally, the "Give Me Choices" option offers users multiple answers to select from, a feature that can prove invaluable when preparing for tests. The "Answer with a Photo" function enhances the user experience by allowing individuals to upload images directly from their camera roll, complementing an already existing feature that lets them scan problems using their phones.

Developed by a team with experience from Meta, Google, X (formerly Twitter), and Twitch, Sizzle has gained over 20,000 downloads since its August launch, boasting an average rating of 4.6 stars on both the App Store and Google Play Store.

With the rollout of these new features, Sizzle aims to encourage more students to engage with the app. Distinct from many learning tools that require in-app purchases to access certain functions, Sizzle is entirely free to use. While the company does plan to introduce a premium version and additional in-app purchases in the future, the current features for solving problems step-by-step will remain free.

Recently, Sizzle secured $7.5 million in seed funding, led by Owl Ventures, with contributions from 8VC and FrenchFounders. These funds will help expand the development team and enhance the product, with plans to introduce even more features in the coming months.