Updates to Google Translate iOS and Android : Real-Time Voice and Sign Translations

Google Translate has gotten even more functional. Now for both iOS and Android you will be able to translate any language that is being spoken. Also there is the addition of Word Lens. This app allows you to take a picture of a sign and get a translation from English to and from French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish instantly.

Those previously awkward moments where you aren’t sure what someone is saying or your are standing on a street wondering where you have ended up, are over! Using this app is super simple when it comes to having multilingual conversations. All you have to do it choose two languages, tap the mic and start speaking. You will also be impressed when it comes to reading signs in another language.  When using the Translate app, just point your camera at a sign or text and you’ll see the translated text overlaid on your screen—even if you don’t have an Internet or data connection.

This app isn’t new to the market, it has been around since 2007. Last year Google stated that it is currently serving 200 million people daily. For some languages, Google Translate can pronounce translated text, highlight corresponding words and phrases in the source and target text, and act as a simple dictionary for single-word input.

Google is constantly trying to find new ways to meet people’s needs. The team at ROI Media Works thinks this is a great tool for fellow travellers and immigrants. Please share your thoughts on Google Translate and another App you find interesting and helpful.