AI-Powered Google Translate Updates

New Features in Google Translate

Google Translate is expected to receive significant updates based on artificial intelligence, such as the ability to choose different AI models and a game-like training mode. According to a report by Android Police on Monday, Android analyst AssembleDebug discovered new UI changes in the latest version of the Google Translate app, version 9.15.114.

At the top of the interface, there's a new model selector: "Fast" and "Advanced". The Fast mode is presumed to be for quick and efficient translation tasks, such as deciphering menus. The Advanced mode is likely to use Gemini technology to understand text or conversation context more accurately. However, this mode currently supports a limited number of language pairs, including English with Spanish and French, and vice versa.

The update will also include a training mode to help gamify language learning, similar to what is used in the popular language app Duolingo. A representative for Google did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Previous Developments in Real-Time Translation

Over the past two years, Google has showcased various demonstrations and launched features to facilitate real-time translation.

At Google I/O earlier this year, the tech giant demonstrated what live translation might look like for someone wearing Android XR smart glasses. With the launch of the Pixel Fold phone in 2023, the company also released a live interpretation mode that used both the device's internal and external screens.

The Role of AI in Language Understanding

Understanding different languages is a key innovation in the field of artificial intelligence. The ability to use large language model technology for translation between two different languages expands the scope of content and conversations humans can have with each other. Google has already launched automatic dubbing technology on YouTube, allowing English-speaking audiences to watch, for example, Japanese YouTubers.