Speak easy
Google has bolstered its Translate app for Android by introducing a conversation mode and reworking the user interface.
The conversation mode is an ‘experimental feature still in its earliest stages' according to Google's blog, but is designed to allow users to "communicate fluidly with a nearby person in another language".
At the moment, the mode can only translate between English and Spanish but can translate a person's speech and read the translation out loud. The idea is that a nearby ‘conversation partner' can respond in their language and another translation can be heard, enabling people to have a real conversation.
However, Google warned: "because this technology is still in alpha, factors like regional accents, background noise or rapid speech may make it difficult to understand what you're saying." However, the prospect is still pretty exciting and could get people out of a pickle on holiday.
The Google Translate app has also been refreshed with better dropdown language selection boxes, an improved input box and cleaner icons and layout. The app was first launched in January last year with romanisation of non-Roman scripts and spoken translations plus voice input and SMS translation.
Google said that the app is used daily in over 150 countries and supports 53 languages, with voice input for 15 languages.
Here's an image of its makeover.
In similar news, Google has also rolled out Google Places with Hotspot for iPhone, following on from the recent release of the app for Android.
"Places with Hotpot not only helps you find places near where you are, it gives you the best places to go for you by personalizing your search results," Google said.
