Google Translate update for Android

In January 2010, we launched the first version of Google Translate for Android. First, we implemented on the Android platform the capabilities supported by Google Translate - machine translation, romanization of non-Latin and voice translations. We also implemented voice input and SMS translation.

Today we updated Translate for Android for even more simple interaction. In addition to other improvements, we improved drop-down lists of languages, input field, icons and design.

We also want you to try an experimental function that is still at a very early stage of development. This talk mode is a new interface in Google Translate that is optimized so that you can communicate freely with a person in the vicinity in a different language. You may have seen an early demo a few months ago, and today you can try it on your Android device.

Now you can use conversation mode only when translating between English and Spanish. In talk mode, simply press the microphone button into your language and start speaking. Google Translate will translate your words and read the translation aloud. Your partner will be able to answer in their own language, and you will hear the translation. Since this technology is still in alpha, factors such as regional accents, background noise, or quick speech can interfere with understanding. Even with these reservations, we believe that in the future this technology will help people communicate in different languages.
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As Android devices have spread around the world, we see that Translate for Android is used everywhere. Most users are now outside the United States, and we see daily usage in more than 150 countries, from Malaysia to Mexico and Mozambique. We are really happy to see how this new platform helps break language barriers around the world.

Translate supports 53 languages, from Afrikaans to Yiddish, and voice input in 15 languages. You can download the app available for devices running Android 2.1 and higher by searching “Google Translate” on the Android Market or by scanning the QR code below.