Google Translate, as per the company’s claim, processes a staggering one trillion words every month. Due to the sheer volume and diversity of languages and words, inaccuracies in translation are inevitable. However, Google is testing a new feature for its Google Translate app that could provide more transparency and functionality in its translation process.
Google Translate is experimenting with two new buttons named “Understand” and “Ask,” replacing the existing “Ask A Follow-up” feature that currently doesn’t exist in the iOS version of the app.
The “Understand” button aims to shed light on the rationale behind a given translation, offering context and insight about the translated text. This information includes in-depth grammar explanations that delve into sentence structure, explanations of word sense and idioms used in translation, and cultural notes highlighting how cultural nuances such as politeness levels or gender influences have factored into the translation.
The “Ask” button, on the other hand, empowers users to request AI assistance for a customized or improved translation. Users can request a translation with a specific tone – formal, casual, or simplified, alternative translations, regional variants of the translation, or usage of a particular phrase or word in a sentence. These AI-powered buttons are still considered experimental, though.
Google is also testing another feature in its Android app that displays translated text in a larger font size, improving accessibility for users with less than perfect vision. This larger font is also visible in the full-screen mode of the app.
This feature is already available in the iOS version of Google Translate and is expected to arrive on the Android version soon.
Google Translate is expanding its horizons beyond basic language translation, according to product manager Matt Sheets. He added that users can now “listen and speak with confidence on the topics you care about.” These statements align with Google’s earlier announcement that Google Translate would become more educational, offering language-learning features similar to Duolingo.
In the app, a “Practice” button at the bottom right of the display allows users to select English, Spanish, French, or Portuguese to learn either Spanish or French. Users can also pick their current proficiency level in the language they wish to learn, with options for Basic, Intermediate, or Advanced.
What are the new features being tested in the Google Translate app?
Google is experimenting with two new buttons, “Understand” and “Ask,” which aim to provide the reasoning behind a translation and allow users to request a customized translation, respectively.
What is the purpose of the larger font size being tested in Google Translate for Android?
The larger font size is designed to improve accessibility for users with less than perfect vision, making it easier for them to see the translation.
What language learning features does Google Translate offer?
Google Translate offers a “Practice” feature where users can choose to learn Spanish or French in English, Spanish, French, or Portuguese. They can also select their current proficiency level in the language they’re learning.
