Skype now lets anyone the opportunity to use its real-time translation feature to talk to someone who does not speak your language.
See also : Windows 10: it will come in Home, and Mobile Pro versions
Microsoft has announced plans to add a real-time translation to its application for video calls there about a year. Earlier this year, the preview of Skype Translator , which included support for English, Spanish, Italian and Chinese, has become available to a small group of beta testers.
Today, Microsoft removes the requirement to register for the preview of Skype Translator , which allows anyone with a computer or tablet on Windows 8.1 (or Windows 10 Technical Preview) to hold a conversation with someone in one of the four languages supported.
When using the application, you will be able to choose to have an audio translation, which uses a computer voice to speak, or using subtitles instead - through messages posted in the discussion. Transcripts can also be saved for future reference - this can be very helpful.
The Skype Translator tool also includes translations for instant messages in almost 50 languages . In other words, if your language is not yet supported for translation in real time, you can use instant messaging functionality instead.
Fierce competition
Currently the application is only available on PCs and tablets running Windows. I would love to see this feature available on all Skype applications . This would open the possibilities for use of the translation in real time.
Google is also working on real-time translation for its Google Translate service. Obviously, the more options will multiply, the easier it is to communicate with people around the world.
It's just a matter of time before the language barrier has completely disappeared. Does that mean we will not need to learn a foreign language at school?
See also : Windows 10: it will come in Home, and Mobile Pro versions
Microsoft has announced plans to add a real-time translation to its application for video calls there about a year. Earlier this year, the preview of Skype Translator , which included support for English, Spanish, Italian and Chinese, has become available to a small group of beta testers.
Today, Microsoft removes the requirement to register for the preview of Skype Translator , which allows anyone with a computer or tablet on Windows 8.1 (or Windows 10 Technical Preview) to hold a conversation with someone in one of the four languages supported.
The Skype Translator tool also includes translations for instant messages in almost 50 languages . In other words, if your language is not yet supported for translation in real time, you can use instant messaging functionality instead.
Fierce competition
Currently the application is only available on PCs and tablets running Windows. I would love to see this feature available on all Skype applications . This would open the possibilities for use of the translation in real time.
Google is also working on real-time translation for its Google Translate service. Obviously, the more options will multiply, the easier it is to communicate with people around the world.
It's just a matter of time before the language barrier has completely disappeared. Does that mean we will not need to learn a foreign language at school?