As we move into the new year, it’s natural to reflect on the past and look ahead to the future. 2022 has seen rapid growth in language technologies, with advancements in machine learning and AI.
In 2022, Google Lens developed multi-search, allowing users to perform searches based on images, objects and text. Apple made improvements to their in-camera translations, enabling you to point your phone camera at text and translate it in real-time. And Meta’s Universal Speech Translator was introduced, to convert unwritten language into spoken English.
As companies continue to develop these translation tools, the implications for communication in 2023 are far-reaching. Here we’ve listed our predictions for 2023’s innovations in language technology, and what they might mean for the professional language service industry.
3 Translation technologies to keep an eye on
Augmented reality translations
With augmented reality (AR) technology, you can point your phone’s camera at a sign or printed text, and have the translation appear in a virtual overlay. No typing or copy-pasting required. Now, you may be thinking this technology isn’t new, and you’d be right. Many apps were developed in the 2010s enabling users to take a photo of foreign text and read it in their own language.
However, AI object recognition and mobile processing speeds have come a long way in recent months. Apple’s latest advert (below) shows us a blind iPhone user navigating his environment using object recognition technology.
Artificial intelligence-supported translations
AI translation technology could help people who are learning a language, detecting errors in grammar and suggesting other formulations more suited to the context. An example of this already in place is Google’s Neural Machine Translation (GNMT), which can detect the language of a text and then translate it in real-time. This technology is being used for certain types of content by companies such as Microsoft, Amazon, Twitter and Apple.
The accuracy of these services will increase as more data is collected. We expect that, going forward, AI-assisted translations will become an integral part of our lives, in areas such as healthcare, education, and hospitality.
Real-time conversational translations
Voice translation is already widely available, with voice recognition services like Alexa and Google Home converting spoken words into written text. In 2023, we expect to see more companies introducing real-time voice translation into their software. In theory, going forward, this technology could enable casual users to converse at a basic level with others speaking a different language.
The future of professional language services
The language industry will continue to play a critical role in the development and adoption of new translation technology. Many language service providers are already investing heavily in AI-powered translation solutions and machine-learning technologies to improve accuracy and reduce costs. We expect this trend to continue so that businesses can turn around faster, more accurate services at competitive prices.
Here’s our list of what to expect from language service providers in 2023:
Improved customer service
Through AI-powered translation and automated quality assurance, language service providers can enhance their customer experience. At Global Lingo, we incorporate a number of language technologies when and where they add value.
Faster turnaround times
AI-powered translation technologies allow linguists to quickly and accurately translate content, making it possible for businesses to deliver high-quality translations at pace. We expect this trend to continue as the technology continues to advance and more companies invest in machine learning solutions. This is perfect for businesses that need fast turnarounds without compromising on quality.
Data analysis and insights
AI-powered translations offer a wealth of data for analysis and insight. Companies can now access real-time reports and analytics on their content, allowing them to make more informed decisions about their translation strategies. We are already seeing companies use this data to inform their marketing activities and optimise their international presence.
Human translators are still essential to businesses
Though AI and machine learning have been instrumental in enhancing the turnaround and consistency of translations, they are no replacement for human linguists. Language professionals will continue to play a critical role in the industry, providing accurate, quality translations that capture the subtle nuances and cultural sensitivities of language.
The future of language technology
In conclusion, with advancements in new translation technology and a drive for businesses to become more customer-centric, there is a great deal of potential for growth and change in 2023. As the industry continues to grow, so too will the need for new tools and technologies.
At Global Lingo, we already incorporate the best translation technology available, enabling us to deliver projects at pace, while maintaining the accuracy and quality we’re proud to be recognised for. Our machine translation (MT), translation memory & terminology management, and automated speech recognition (ASR) are working examples of our investments in the future of translation technologies.
We are already beginning to see the real-world application of AI-assisted translation, real-time voice translation, data analysis and insights, all of which provide exciting opportunities to expand global reach. We look forward to the future of language technology and what it can bring to global business.
If you would like to see how we can help you make use of technology for your business communication, contact one of our language specialists today. We’ll be able to provide a comprehensive overview of how you can use our language services to enhance your businesses in 2023, and beyond.