Google Translate takes on Duolingo with new AI-powered live translation and language learning tools
Google Translate users in the US, India, and Mexico can now have conversations in more than 70 languages in real-time using audio and on-screen translations through the Translate app. Languages available for live translation include Arabic, French, Hindi, Korean, Spanish, and Tamil.
Google is also piloting a new language practice feature specially designed for learning. Google Translate will create tailored listening and speaking practice sessions for its users, adapted to skill level.
The tool has already been tested with beta users and is now available in the Google Translate Android and iOS apps. It is currently available to English speakers practising Spanish and French and Spanish, French, and Portuguese speakers practicing English, with a wider rollout planned.
Users can choose between listening to conversations and tapping the words they hear to help build comprehension, or practising speaking themselves with hints available when needed.
Daily progress is tracked on the app, helping users to build their language skills.
Google says it worked with learning experts and used the latest research on language learning to build the exercises.
Using its Gemini AI-model, Google says it is “going far beyond simple language-to-language translation, and delivering an experience that helps you learn, understand, and navigate conversations with ease”.
The new features put Google Translate in competition with leading language learning app Duolingo. Earlier this year, Duolingo announced it would be moving toward an ‘AI-first’ model. Its CEO said the company would stop working with contractors on any tasks that could be completed by AI.
Earlier this year, Google announced plans to roll out new classroom tools across ChromeOS and introducing Gemini-powered AI features for teaching. The updates include pilot feedback and admin controls designed for practical classroom use.
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