Google [GOOG] is working on software for a mobile phone that will be able to translate speech from foreign languages almost instantly, and Google has said that they intend to have a basic working version of the technology within the next couple of years.
The technology could change the way we communicate with people all over the world, enabling over 6,000 different languages to be translated.
How the Technology Works
The new technology is based on Google’s current text translation service, and voice recognition software, and although the basic version would be limited, Google believes that it could be developed and refined for the majority of users around the world. Google’s text translation service, known as Google Translate, already supports numerous languages and provides text translations with a high degree of accuracy. By integrating this with advanced voice recognition software, the mobile phone would be able to capture spoken words, convert them into text, translate the text into the desired language, and then convert the translated text back into speech. This process would happen almost instantaneously, allowing for real-time conversations between speakers of different languages.
Potential Impact and Applications
It certainly seems like an interesting idea, it would be great to be able to chat with people around the world, in your native language and could have a large impact on business communications. Imagine a business meeting where participants speak different languages; this technology could facilitate seamless communication, breaking down language barriers and fostering better international collaboration. Additionally, travelers could benefit immensely from this technology, as it would enable them to communicate with locals, ask for directions, order food, and engage in cultural exchanges without the need for a human translator.
Moreover, this technology could have significant implications for education. Students learning foreign languages could use the translator to practice their speaking and listening skills. Teachers could use it to communicate with students who speak different languages, making education more inclusive and accessible.
Another potential application is in emergency services. First responders and medical personnel often encounter situations where they need to communicate with individuals who speak different languages. This technology could provide critical assistance in such scenarios, ensuring that vital information is conveyed accurately and promptly.
While the basic version of the technology would be limited, Google envisions a future where it is refined and developed to cater to the needs of users worldwide. The company is likely to face challenges in achieving high accuracy and natural-sounding translations, especially for languages with complex grammar and syntax. However, with continuous advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning, these challenges can be addressed over time.
In conclusion, Google’s efforts to develop a mobile phone language translator hold great promise for transforming global communication. By enabling real-time speech translation, this technology could bridge language gaps, enhance cross-cultural interactions, and open up new opportunities for businesses, travelers, educators, and emergency responders. As Google continues to refine and improve this technology, we can look forward to a future where language is no longer a barrier to understanding and collaboration.
via The Times
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