Researchers at Microsoft are developing translation software that can learn the sound of your voice and use it to speak one of 26 languages, including Mandarin, Spanish and Italian.
The software was demonstrated at Microsoft’s Redmond, Washington-based campus in the US and could be used to help travellers and to assist students learn a new language.
In the demonstration, Microsoft Research scientist Frank Soong used the voice of Craig Mundie, Microsoft’s chief research and strategy, to speak Mandarin and the voice of Microsoft’s Rick Rashid to speak Spanish.
It has been suggested that the software may encourage students to learn another language as it may improve their confidence to hear phrases said in their own voice. Soong also said that the system could be used to read out written text on Chinese road signs.
Google added a conversation mode to its Translate tool for Android smartphones last year which allows users to speak into their handset’s microphone before the translation is played aloud to the intended recipient, who can then respond in their own language. Google Translate is also used in the search giant’s Chrome web browser and Gmail webmail service.
German foreign minister warns Russia will face consequences for “absolutely intolerable” cyberattack on ruling party,…
Google is reportedly laying off at least 200 staff from its “Core” organisation, including key…
Investor appeasement? Apple unveils huge $110 billion share buyback program, as sales of iPhone decline…
Tesla retreats from pioneering gigacasting manufacturing process, amid cost cutting and challenges at EV giant
No skynet please. After the US, UK and France pledge human only control of nuclear…
Microsoft's AI investments continue in south east Asia, after investments in Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia, as…